The State of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Research Report Final (May 2017)
The State of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Research Report Final (May 2017) Table of Contents
1: Introduction 1 2: Community Context 3 Community Description 3 Population Analysis 4 3: Background Review 6 Local Context 6 Municipal Development Plan (2016 Consolidation) 6 Intermunicipal Development Plan (2016) 7 Community Visioning 2014 7 Community Sustainability Plan (2016 – 2019) 9 Growth Study and Financial Assessment (2014) 9 Okotoks Outdoor Recreation Facility Master Plan (2006) 9 Town of Okotoks Transportation Master Plan Update (2016) 10 Foothills Regional Indoor Field House Feasibility Study (2009) 11 Town of Okotoks Social Wellness Framework (2010) 11 Town of Okotos 2014 Community Household Survey Final Report 12 Town of Okotoks Urban Forest Management Plan (2013) 12 Town of Okotoks Community Report 2013 12 Okotoks 2015 Active Transportation Strategy 13 Town of Okotoks Culture, Heritage + Arts Master Plan 2010 – 2030 13 Provincial Context 14 Active Alberta 14 National Context 15 A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing 15 Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L) 16 Table of Contents
4: The Benefits of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure 17 National Benefits HUB: The Benefits of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure 17 5: Trends and Leading Practices 20 Participation 20 Physical Activity and Wellness Levels 20 Physical Activity Preferences 21 Balancing Structured and Spontaneous Uses 24 Flexibility and Adaptability 24 Barriers to Participation 24 Providing Recreation Opportunities 25 Partnerships 25 Social Inclusion 25 Community Development 26 Financial Barriers 26 Volunteerism 27 Infrastructure 28 Aging Infrastructure 28 Multi-Use Spaces 28 Integrating Indoor and Outdoor Environments 28 Ensuring Accessibility 28 Social Amenities 28 Urban Parks Systems 29 Providing Quality Parks and Outdoor Spaces 29 Active Transportation 29 Preserving Heritage and Culture 30 Recreational Use of Natural Water Bodies 30 Table of Contents
6: Inventory 31 Inventory Overview 31 Indoor Infrastructure 32 Okotoks Recreation Centre 32 Crescent Point Regional Field House 33 Pason Centennial Arena 33 Parks and Outdoor Amenities 33 Pathway System 34 Regional Inventory 35 7: Utilization 36 Aquatics 36 Arenas 36 Curling Rink 37 Gymnasium Spaces 37 Crescent Point Regional Field House 37 Ball Diamonds 38 Rectangular Fields 38 8: Service Delivery 39 Direct Programming 39 Public Access to Facilities 40 Infrastructure 41 Partnerships 41 Parks, Pathways, and Open Spaces 41 Fee Assistance 41 Table of Contents
9: Benchmarking 42 Indoor Inventory 43 Number of Indoor Facilities 43 Indoor Provision Ration Comparison 43 Outdoor Inventory 44 Number of Outdoor Amenities 44 Outdoor Provision Ration Comparison 44 10: Consultation 45 Consultation Overview 45 Household Survey 46 Community Group Survey 59 Stakeholder Interviews 63 11: Summary 65 12: Preliminary Infrastructure Priorities 67 Preliminary Indoor Priorities 67 Preliminary Outdoor Priorities 68
Appendices A: Household Survey Questionnaire 70 B: Community Group Survey Questionnaire 78 C: Community Group Survey Participant List 83 D: Stakeholder Interview Participant List 84
One
Introduction
Of the three levels of planning outlined below (strategic, tactical, and project), the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan is a strategic planning document that sets direction for years to come. The planning of specific facilities, parks, and programs, for example, will occur at the tactical and project planning levels; the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan provides a foundation for such subsequent projects.
Sets direction creates framework/system. Strategic Planning MDPs, Strategic Plans, Master Plans Long-term
Provides de nition, assesses impact. Tactical Planning Feasibility Studies, Business Plans Short/mid-term
De nes implementation/action. Project Planning Design, Construction, Operations Immediate
The Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan process consists of two documents: The State of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure in Okotoks and the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan.
The State of Recreation, Parks, Recreation, Parks, and Leisure and Leisure Master Plan Research Report Strategic Direction
1 The State of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure in Okotoks is a research report that initiates the Master Plan process. Before strategic direction can be set, information about the municipality must be gathered and analyzed. Each component of the research report is described and justified in the following chart.
1 6 Overview of Okotoks and Presents utilization data from Community its demographics. Town supported recreation, park, and leisure spaces Context To set the context for the Utilization research and plan. To measure the extent to which current spaces are utilized.
7 2 Review of previous Outlines the Town's current practices in programming and space allocation. Background planning e orts. Review To ensure the Master Plan Service Delivery To understand the Town's current is in alignment. role in providing recreation, parks, and leisure services.
3 8 Outlines eight key bene ts of Compares infrastructure inventory in Okotoks to ve "similar" municipalities. The Benefits recreation, parks, and leisure. Benchmarking To identify potential gaps of Recreation To further justisfy investment in these services. in infrastructure.
9 Presents ndings of the 4 Discussion on trends and household survey, group survey, and stakeholder interviews Trends and leading practices. Consultation To understand the needs of local Leading Practices To learn what is happening in other Alberta municipalities and beyond. residents and service providers.
10 Based on the consultation results 5 (community demand), a preliminary A list of Okotoks' current list of infrastructure priorities are indoor and outdoor Preliminary set forth . recreation infrastructure. Infrastructure Inventory To initiative further analysis of To identify the spaces in which Priorities these priorities (which occurs in residents currenty use for the Master Plan document) . recreation and leisure participation.
2 Two
Community Context
Community Description1 Key Findings The Town of Okotoks is located in the Sheep River Valley of the • The median age of residents in Okotoks is younger Alberta Foothills. With a population of 28,016 (2015), Okotoks is than provincial and national averages (72% of the close to many destinations such as the larger centre of Calgary population is under 40 years of age). There are also and its airport as well as Banff and the Rocky Mountains. About slightly more people per household compared 50% of Okotoks’ work force is employed in Calgary with the to the provincial average, suggesting a higher other half working in the Okotoks and Foothills region. proportion of families. The Town’s top employment sectors are education, construction, • The Town of Okotoks Growth Study and Financial industrial, professional and technical services, retail, commercial, Assessment (2014) projects a 2073 population of 82,152. and home-based businesses. As a regional centre of trade activity • The current trade area of Okotoks is estimated for aapproximately 85,000 people, Okotoks services the likes of at 85,000 people (includes Okotoks, High River, High River, Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Vulcan, Nanton and Black Diamond, Turner Valley, Vulcan, Nanton, the M.D. of Foothills. A multitude of highway options adds to and rural areas). the Town’s accessibility. Highway 2 allows quick access north to Calgary (20 km) and south to Lethbridge (170 km). Highway • South Calgary has experienced rapid growth in 2A leads to High River (20 km) while Highway 7 and 22 allows recent years both in terms of residents and services. transport to Turner Valley (25 km). Growth of South Calgary and other regional municipalities will continue to increase Okotoks With a young population, Okotoks has 13 preschools, five elementary trading and service area. schools, two junior high schools, two regional high schools, • As the community grows, it is expected that the two private schools, and one kindergarten to grade 9 school. population will continue to diversify in terms of ethnicity, social economics, and other characteristics.
1 Population data and characteristics from the Okotoks Fact File 2016.
3 Population Analysis Okotoks is a young and prosperous community. Its median age of 34.1 is 6 years younger than the national median. There are slightly more people per household compared to the provincial average, suggesting a higher proportion of families. • Population (2015): 28,016 • Percent Growth (from 2014 to 2015): 2.5% • Median Age: (2011): 34.1 • Average Number of People per Household (2011): 2.9 • Median After-Tax Family Income (2010): $87,821. This is higher than the provincial median ($80,271) • Percentage of the population under the age of 45: 75% • Seven-point-four percent (7.4%) of Okotoks’ population (2011) is above the age of 64 (the provincial proportion is 11.1%) • Accoring to the 2011 National Household Survey (Statistics Canada), 11% of Okotoks’ residents are immigrants—the majority of whom (72%) are from Europe • Approximately 50% of the Town’s workforce is employed in Calgary • The Town of Okotoks Growth Study and Financial Assessment (2014) projects a 2073 population of 82,152 residents • The top employment sectors in Okotoks are education, construction, industrial, professional and technical services, retail, commercial, and home-based businesses • Fifty-three percent (53%)1 of business licenses in Okotoks are operating as home-based businesses According to Statistics Canada’s 2011 Census of the Population, Okotoks has a much higher proportion of residents 19 years and younger (32.6%) compared to the province (25.3%). The opposite is true for residents 50 years and older as Okotoks’ proportion is 6.1% lower than Alberta’s. Age Distribution 2011 Okotoks Alberta 10%
9%
8%
7%
6%
5%
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2%
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0% r s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s year year year year year year year year year year year 24 - 74 - 19 - 14 - 59 - 49 - 39 - 79 year 0 - 4 year 5 - 9 year - 64 - 44 s and olde 15 70 10 55 20 - 35 75 45 65 - 69 year 30 - 34 year 50 - 54 year 25 - 29 80 - 84 60 40 85 year In 2012, Council adopted a continuous growth model enabled by pursuit of a sub-regional water supply model, thereby lifting a capped growth model established in 1998. The Town of Okotoks Growth Study and Financial Assessment (2016) projects a 2073 population of 82,152. As the greater Calgary region continues to grows, Okotoks will begin to grow at a faster rate. Even with finite growth in the recent past, from 2001 to 2011 Okotoks received 4.4% of total regional growth which represents a 110% increase over those ten years.
1 Town of Okotoks Community Report 2016.
4 The following graph and chart from the Growth Study and Financial Assessment illustrates the projected growth of the community
Figure 1. Projected Population, Town of Okotoks, 2013 – 2073 Town of Okotoks Growth Study and Financial Assessment 2016
90,000 Constand share of growth projection 80,000 82,152 residents (2073)
70,000
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50,000 pulation
Po 40,000
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20,000 2011 population: 24,511 residents 10,000
0 2000 2010 2020 2030 2040 2050 2060 2070 2080
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Table 1. Summary of Net Land Demand (in hectares), Town of Okotoks, 2013 – 2073. Land Demand 2013 – 2043 2043 – 2073 Total Total Residential Land Demand 435 310 745 Single Detached 371 251 623 Attached (Row and Semi-Detached) 32 30 62 Apartment 31 29 60 Commercial Land Demand 52 33 85 Industrial Land Demand 56 56 112 Total Net Land Demand 543 399 942
5 Three
Background Review
A series of municipal plans and studies have been reviewed in order to identify references to recreation, parks, and leisure Key Findings provision and their place in other planning contexts. This provides an overview of the perspective of these services more broadly • Recreation, parks, and leisure is embedded in the in municipal provision. Some of the studies examined had a Town’s municipal planning documents. particular focus on recreation. Reviewing these plans is instructive • The Okotoks Community Vision 2014 and Community to consider their recommendations and conclusions in light of Sustainability Plan (2016 – 2019) are key guiding this assessment. Finally a review of some pertinent provincial and documents in the delivery of recreation and other national level plans and frameworks are presented that illustrate “quality of life” services. Both of these documents the broader nature of recreation, parks, and leisure. portray recreation, parks, and leisure services and facilities as key to meeting strategic goals. Other important existing Town planning documents include the Municipal Development Plan, Social Wellness Local Context Framework, and Town business plans. Municipal Development Plan • Okotoks’ Business Plan (2014 – 2017) states that the Town will provide recreation and cultural facilities to (2016 Consolidation) meet current and future growth needs. As prescribed through the Municipal Government Act, • The Municipal Development Plan shares a vision that Municipal Development Plans (MDP) address overarching all community facilities in Okotoks are architecturally land use and policies. Aspects of Okotoks’ MDP related to significant landmarks that provide focus for recreation, parks, and leisure are presented below. community life, and lend to Okotoks’ distinction as being “unique”. General Policies • The Town of Okotoks Social Wellness Framework (2010) recommends to develop strategies to reduce the costs • Council shall refuse development if it does not comply of recreation, sport, and culture related programs. with sustainable design principles. • Provincial and national initiatives such as Active • When reviewing subdivision applications, development Alberta and A Framework for Recreation in Canada permits and park development schemes proposed by set a strong foundation for municipal planning. developers, shall take into consideration the safety of its citizens. • A number of other municipalities in the region have • The municipality, when developing parks and other public conducted recent planning in recreation, parks, facilities shall take into consideration the safety of its citizens. and leisure areas. Managing growth with finite resources is a challenge experienced by most of these communities.
6 Parks/Pathways Policies Intermunicipal Development Plan (2016) • A variety of parks of different sizes and functions should The Town of Okotoks and the M.D. Foothills undertook be integrated into new residential development areas. an Intermunicipal Development Plan (IDP) to outline the • Parks should range from small tot lots to larger recreation communication procedures for land development decision areas and will be governed by the following factors making. The purpose of the IDP is to identify municipal and principles: interests relative to lands within the Plan area and to develop »» The need and/or area required for a school site within policies and decision-making processes that respect the the residential development area will be considered, interests of both municipalities. A process is outlined for but shall be minimized so as to ensure adequate land use and statutory plan applications including a formal provision of a linear/linked open space/pathway application review, conflict resolution, mediation process, and system in the neighbourhood. appeal process. »» Comprehensive system of pedestrian walkways and trails extending into adjacent residential development Community Visioning 2014 and providing linkages between playgrounds, school, open space areas, the Sheep River Valley, park facilities, employment centres, and residences shall be established. Vision »» Playground and tot lot facilities generally should be The Town of Okotoks is resilient, where people, businesses, ideas, located on local residential streets and should be and sense of community thrive. Grounded by the Sheep River valley accessible to the immediate neighborhood and the and supported by thoughtful planning and design, a strong local pathway system. economy and a vibrant civic culture, Okotoks offers exceptional »» Neighborhood parks and larger recreation areas generally quality of life at every stage of life. Respect for each other and the should be located along residential collector roadways natural environment makes Okotoks home. and provide adequate parking for users as well as good accessibility to the entire residential development. Guiding Principles »» Where multi-unit housing is proposed, provision should Livable Okotoks: People make Okotoks the caring, safe be made for the location of public or private open space and welcoming place that it is. Public spaces are cherished, within close proximity and with easy accessibility. natural features are valued, and community needs are met. An »» Where tot lot sites and school facilities are located appropriate mix of land uses, mobility options, infrastructure adjacent to high traffic roadways, the proponent of and accessible, affordable and equitable services provide the the development shall provide fencing to act as a foundation for sustainable growth. High-quality educational deterrent for children entering onto public roadways opportunities support life-long learning. The transportation while also enabling access from the community network is multi-modal, allowing for the environmentally into the playground. Fencing, if required, shall be responsible and cost-effective movement of people and encouraged to be of non-traditional form and shall be goods. of innovative, high aesthetic quality. Vibrant Civic Culture and Heritage: Residents joyfully embrace Okotoks, and cultivate a rich quality of life. Okotoks Community Facility Policies provides access to a wide range of cultural resources, • The amount of public reserve land utilized by municipal fostering audiences, participants and creators who contribute facility buildings shall be reasonably balanced in relation to community building and economic development. The to the amount of land required for parks, pathways and strong tradition of community events is a hallmark of living in the integrated open space system. Okotoks. Residents are engaged in civic life, and Town Council and administration promote open dialogue. • Facilities shall require that on-site visitor parking accommodate parking demand created by the facility. Inclusive Neighborhoods: Neighbourhoods are connected, • In identifying future facility requirements and locations, the fostering a sense of community among residents. Housing Town should pursue sites that have good accessibility to is flexible, affordable and desirable, and meets the needs of collector or arterial roads, and at the same time are central to residents of all ages, income levels and family types. Design neighborhoods, providing a civic focus for neighborhoods. and architecture create places that reflect neighbourhood culture. Community gathering spaces are animated and anchor • Vision: All community facilities in Okotoks are architecturally neighbourhoods. Streets are lively and engaging places, where significant landmarks that provide focus for community life, people can move around in a safe and inclusive environment. and lend to Okotoks’ distinction as being “unique”. New communities are permeable and connected to encourage active transportation.
7 Active Lifestyles: Residents enjoy an active lifestyle that Values nurtures community well-being. Health and wellness Six core community values were distilled from the fourteen facilities support the needs of residents at every stage of major themes. Values are the building blocks for the vision life. Opportunities for sport and play are accessible in high- and principles, and are a collective expression of what is most quality recreation facilities, multi-use civic buildings and a important to the Town. complete parks and open space network. These public spaces strengthen the bond between residents, and to the places they share. Value 1: Caring • People are friendly Sustainable Design: The places and spaces that make up Okotoks are designed with the environment in mind. • People look out for one another Energy, air, land and water conservation are critical elements • People take pride in their Town integrated into all planning and development projects. • People thrive Okotoks is a leader in low-impact, environmentally conscious design. Creative resources, advanced technologies and Value 2: Complete respect for nature create an unique sense of place based on environmental stewardship. Regional and local transit provides • A range of housing, jobs, educational opportunities, an efficient transportation alternative and reduces vehicle use. services, recreation and culture are provided in the community Local Economy: Okotoks-based employment and businesses strengthen the economy. Okotoks takes a collaborative • The needs of all residents, regardless of income or age, are approach to economic growth, creating new opportunities equitably met that complement the region. Okotoks promotes innovation and attracts green businesses and industries. A thriving Value 3: Connected downtown supports economic development. Okotoks is • People can easily access community services a place to live, work and play, where short commute times • Mobility emphasizes walking, cycling and transit use enable residents to actively engage in their community. • Integrated design links the built, social and natural environments Themes The following fourteen (14) major themes that imagine what Value 4: Active, Inclusive and Diverse Okotoks could become in the future were also identified and • Healthy, balanced lifestyle for all refined during the OCV process. • Strong participation in civic culture/community events 1. Social Capital (people) • Accessible heritage, cultural, creative, play-based and 2. Parks and Open Spaces sporting resources 3. Downtown Value 5: Green 4. Neighborhoods 5. Mobility • Respect and conserve the natural environment 6. Culture • Become leaders in climate change adaptation, energy reduction and renewable resources 7. Recreation • People are mindful of their actions and impacts 8. Design/Built Environment 9. Environment Value 6: Resilient 10. Governance • Strong leadership 11. Economy • Enduring commitment 12. Education • Affordable services 13. Health and Wellbeing • Adaptive management 14. Commercial/Retail Services • People and municipal government strive for innovative and creative solutions
8 Community Sustainability Plan (2016 – 2019) Okotoks Outdoor Recreation Facility Master Plan (2006) The refreshed Community Sustainability Plan identities priority areas for the Town over the next 3 years. The Plan was based The purpose of the Master Plan is to ensure the sustainable on other previous and existing strategic planning as well and appropriate provision of outdoor recreation services in the as community input. The following six (6) critical steps are future. The recommended strategies and associated costs are identified in the Plan: presented as follows. • Animate downtown • Pilot transit Ten Recommended Strategies: • Focus on the Municipal Development Plan 15. That the Town of Okotoks prepare and adopt a policy on development standards for outdoor recreation facilities to • Expand environmental initiatives guide planning for facility upgrading and development. • Support community connections 16. That the Town of Okotoks prepare and adopt • Expand water and wastewater systems maintenance standards (Levels A, B and C) to guide the planning, maintenance and sustainability of existing and future outdoor recreation facilities. Growth Study and Financial Assessment (2016) 17. That the Town utilize Development Standards (based on This study assesses the land needs for the Town as it expects to Neighbourhood, Community and Regional type facilities) grow over the next 60 years. Direction is provided for the first and Population Standards (based on specific facilities per and second 30-year intervals. As mentioned in the Population capita) to derive the type and number of facilities needed Analysis section, by the year 2073, the population is projected to meet the outdoor recreation needs of a build-out to reach 82,152 residents. Conclusions that may be pertinent to population of 30,000 people. recreation, parks, and leisure planning are contained herein. 18. That the Town work with the school boards to take over responsibility for the development and maintenance of school fields through the creation of an outdoor facility Conclusions joint use agreement. • The Town of Okotoks will continue to experience high 19. That the Town of Okotoks work with the Municipal District population growth pressures. of Foothills to develop a cost-sharing arrangement for • Constrained urban land supplies will also have impacts on the development and maintenance of outdoor recreation the surrounding rural area. facilities that are shared with regional users. • The Town is positioned to continue as a regional service 20. That the Town of Okotoks work with the Town of High centre into the future. River and the MD of Foothills to develop a regional • Long-term coordination of growth will require policy athletic facility in partnership with surrounding decisions regarding cost sharing. communities. 21. That the Town commit to enhancing existing outdoor Future work by the Town and stakeholders should facilities to make them more suitable for user group needs include: commencing in 2006 ($2,200,000 over the next 5 years). • Annexation planning. 22. That the Town work with user groups to review the standards of maintenance and costs with an aim to creating • Consultations with the public and stakeholders on future an equitable rate policy for playfields. Target rate for planning and development levies. user groups should be less than Calgary costs and utilize • Development of additional infrastructure studies. proposed youth (50/50) and adult (60/40) recovery ratios. 23. That the Town work with user groups to develop and implement a partnership model for facility development and operation (p. 36). 24. That the Town develop a Pathway and Trails Plan that links facilities throughout the community.
9 Cost of Achieving Recommendations: • Facility redevelopments: $2,200,000 • Facility developments: $3,069,000 • Regional facility developments: $1,800,000
Town of Okotoks Transportation Master Plan Update (2016)
The Town of Okotoks recently completed an updated of its Transportation Master Plan (TMP). Refreshing the Plan was deemed necessary as the Town is currently in the process of annexation to acquire land accommodating the planned 60 year of growth (Figure E 1). The previous Transportation Master Plan, completed in 2008, was carried out in accordance with the limited growth model that Okotoks was following at the time. Since 2008, the Town and surrounding areas have also experienced high levels of growth and undertaken other related planning that is expected to impact transportation planning needs.
Summarized in the chart below are the recommended improvements and associated capital costs identified in the TMP.
Year Improvement Estimated Cost Intersection Improvements $1,230,000 2025 Horizontal Total $1,230,000 Network Improvements $48,830,000 Intersection Improvements $10,195,000 2035 Restriping and Signal Timing Phase Adjustments No New Construction Horizontal Total $59,025,000 Intersection Improvements $5,160,000 Restriping and Signal Timing Phase Adjustments No New Construction 2045 Northridge Drive Roadway 6-laning $9,730,000 Northridge Drive Bridge 6-laning $13,200,000 Horizontal Total $28,090,000
Of relevance to the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan, the TMP also noted the importance of active transportation and sought alignment with the Town’s 2015 Active Transportation Strategy. Benefits of active transportation identified in the TMP included: • Public Health/Safety • Environment • Economic/Financial savings • Quality of Life • Transportation Connectivity
10 Foothills Regional Indoor Field House Recommendations Related to Recreation, Feasibility Study (2009) Parks, and Leisure: • Develop programming and make funding available to The study explored the feasibility of a field house facility. strengthen the sense of community at the neighbourhood level. The regional partners (Okotoks, M.D. of Foothills, High River, Turner Valley, and Black Diamond) studied the following topics: • Continue to include neighbourhood parks in the design of Demand, locations, cost estimates, designs, and operational models. new communities. • Continue the commitment to preserving and providing A facility was constructed in 2014 and is now named the access to natural spaces. Crescent Point Regional Field House. More detail on the facility can be found in the inventory section of this research report. • Make available a wide range of after school programming for students. • Make after school programming financially accessible for Town of Okotoks Social Wellness all students. Framework (2010) • Develop strategies that provide reduced costs for enrolling in multiple recreation, sport and cultural programs. The Framework’s purpose is to identify and address the issues and concerns related to social wellness. • Increase programming for preschool aged children.
Vision Statement Social Wellness Indicators Related to Recreation, Parks, and Leisure: In the year 2030, Okotoks is a leader in sustainability, driven by an involved, connected and creative community. Through Playing visionary leadership, citizens are engaged in maintaining a • Percentage of the population participating in parks and safe, caring and vital community that honours our culture, recreation programs. heritage and environment. • Percentage increase in the number of free/low cost recreation, events, and celebrations relative to the increase Six Community Values are Identified: in population. 1. Personal growth: supporting education, lifelong learning • Percentage of the population indicating ‘very satisfied’ and personal development. with (a) community programming; (b) outdoor recreation 2. Natural environment: preserving the natural environment facilities; (c) indoor recreation facilities; and (d) cultural and and adopting sustainable environmental practices. historical services. 3. Sense of community: fostering connected and caring neighbourhoods. Moving 4. Economic vitality: providing a range of opportunities to • Percentage of the population indicating ‘very satisfied’ engage in meaningful work that benefits the individual with parks and pathways. and the community. 5. Social inclusion: providing the community infrastructure that allows all residents to meet their basic needs and be engaged in and make a meaningful contribution to the community. 6. Health and wellbeing: supporting individuals and families to realize physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health and wellbeing.
11 Town of Okotoks 2013 Community 7. Maintain tree removal, replacement, and planting Household Survey Final Report objectives 8. Enhance public education and respond to public The Community Household Survey was administered to inquiries in a timely manner measure citizen satisfaction with Town-operated services and 9. Facilitate community involvement in both the public and facilities, and to gain insight into community issues. private urban forest 10. Develop a tree preservation and protection policy Related Findings: 11. Maintain cyclic mulching and weeding program • When asked what three things make Okotoks a good place to live, over one‐third of the respondents (35%) mentioned 12. Manage serious pests and diseases parks, pathways, and green spaces. 13. Develop specific management strategies for conservation • With regards to parks and pathways in the Town of areas and other natural areas Okotoks, 92% of the respondents reported that they were either “satisfied” (47%) or “very satisfied” (46%). Town of Okotoks Community Report 2015 • With regards to community programming (i.e., recreation and leisure learning), nearly three-quarters of the The Community Report serves as an information document respondents (73%) were either “satisfied” (49%) or “very to Town residents showcasing progress and achievements of satisfied” (24%). Five percent (5%) were dissatisfied, overall, the community and in relation to identified Town strategic while 22% were unable to provide a rating, as they were priorities and goals. not familiar with the service. Indoor and outdoor recreation achievements highlighted in • More than three‐quarters of the respondents (76%) were the Report included: either “satisfied” (42%) or “very satisfied” (34%) with Okotoks’ outdoor recreation facilities, including ball • Over one-hundred new recreation programs were offered diamonds, soccer fields, and playgrounds. • Over 8,000 people accessed free public swimming and • With regards to indoor recreation facilities, including skate times due to a partnership with EPCOR pools, arenas, the gym, and the fitness centre, nearly four‐ • Over 2,000 new recreation clients accesses Town programs fifths of the respondents (79%) reported that they were and facilities either “satisfied” (46%) or “very satisfied” (33%). • The Town recorded 19,427 program registrations (aquatics or • Parks, pathways, and indoor recreation facilities were other types of community recreation programs) determined to be key strengths or successes.
Town of Okotoks Urban Forest Management Plan (2013)
The Urban Forest Management Plan sets goals for managing the Okotoks urban forest to conserve water, minimize run-off, minimize pest and disease losses, and minimize maintenance costs while growing a beautiful, healthy and strong forest asset.
Thirteen Goals: 1. Urban Forester to continue implementing the UFMP and be accountable for its goals and objectives 2. Ensure newly planted trees are watered for 5 years or until established 3. Assess and report on the Town’s liability related to tree risk and clearance conflicts 4. Revise and update existing urban forest database 5. Update inventory of the Town’s manicured urban forest 6. Prune one fifth of the Town’s manicured urban forest each year
12 Okotoks 2015 Active Transportation Strategy Town of Okotoks Culture, Heritage + Arts Master Plan 2010 - 2030 The purpose of the Active Transportation Strategy is to provide a strong foundation for decision making and to guide Council, The Culture, Heritage + Arts Master Plan directs the integration of Administration and other community stakeholders in setting cultural resources with economic and community development. priorities relating to active transportation. The Plan investigates the arts and heritage needs of the community, outlines future services and facilities, and addresses the needs Okotoks’ Vision for Active Transportation: of citizens of different ages and abilities. Pertinent strategic directions and actions are present here. Creating a culture for a healthy and active community, Okotoks will plan and develop local capacity and support for multiple modes of sustainable, safe, accessible active choices connecting people Pertinent Strategic Directions and Action Plans to neighbourhoods, open spaces, recreation, schools, • Nurturing the arts and culture: and businesses through: »» Establish an arts festival • Developing an active transportation vision for the • Sharing, marketing, and promoting: Okotoks community »» Marketing culturally vital Okotoks. • Developing opportunities and partnerships to enhance active transportation infrastructure and facilities »» Establish a centralized information and ticketing location. • Advising on the design, development, delivery and • Educating for the future: maintenance of active transportation policies, programs, »» Establish shared community and educational and facilities cultural spaces. • Promoting active transportation as a feasible mode of • Development of creative physical infrastructure: transportation in Okotoks and encourage citizens to use forms of active transportation through public outreach, »» Planning and development of a multi-use, purpose- education programs, and events built arts centre including a performing arts centre • Educating the public on the benefits, necessities, and component, an exhibition centre component, and an safety aspects of active transportation outdoor performance and event landscape. • Promoting and enhancing a continuous, integrated »» Retrofitting of the centennial arena as a concert venue. pedestrian and bicycle network (ex. Pathways, sidewalks, »» Retrofit RPAC, Heritage House and Station for more bicycle lanes) within Okotoks, including future network appropriate uses. connections from outside the Town boundaries »» Facilitate establishment of studio collectives and • Encouraging legislation and policy changes that support artist-run centres. and strengthen active transportation for inclusion when various town plans need updating
Active Transportation Strategy Goals: 1. Establish Okotoks as a model for active transportation 2. Identify, implement, and maintain a system of safe routes throughout Okotoks for all active transportation users 3. Increase the percentage of children using active transportation to get to school 4. Improve active transportation access to downtown Okotoks 5. Improve maintenance of active transportation infrastructure in Okotoks 6. Ensure all new development supports active transportation 7. Improve active transportation in existing neighbourhoods and commercial areas 8. Increase educational awareness on the benefits of active transportation 9. Develop an implementation and monitoring system that measures the progress of the active transportation policies adopted by the Town
13 Provincial Context
Active Alberta
The Province of Alberta’s Active Alberta Policy (2011 – 2021) is the overarching Policy document that is intended to guide the delivery of recreational, active living and sport opportunities in the province. The Policy identifies that:
“Recreation, active living and sport are vitally important to Albertans. The activities they choose for enjoyment, where they live and take vacations, what they teach their children, and who they select as their heroes all demonstrate how important the sector is to the lives of Albertans.”
Core to the Policy document is the identification of six core outcomes which reflect the intended objectives of the Policy: 1. Active Albertans: More Albertans are more active, more often. 2. Active Communities: Alberta communities are more active, creative, safe and inclusive. 3. Active Outdoors: Albertans are connected to nature and able to explore the outdoors. 4. Active Engagement: Albertans are engaged in activity and in their communities. 5. Active Coordinated System: All partners involved in providing recreation, active living and sport opportunities to Albertans work together in a coordinated system. 6. Active Pursuit of Excellence: Albertans have opportunities to achieve athletic excellence.
14 National Context
A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015: Pathways to Wellbeing
The recently (2015) finalized Framework for Recreation in Canada provides a new vision and suggests clear goals, underlying values and principles for the provision and delivery of recreation in Canada. While it is understood that recreation is a broad term and that local interests, priorities and needs differ from region to region and in each individual community; aligning the recreation sector can help build a stronger case for investment in recreation. The Framework outlines both a renewed definition and Vision for recreation in Canada.
The Framework was developed based on ongoing engagement with decision makers, academics, service A Framework for providers, and citizens across the Country. Research was also Part II Recreation in Canada 2015 important to the development of the Framework in order to help further justify and portray the benefits of recreation. Vision The Framework for Recreation in Canada was formally adopted Everyone engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences, that foster: Individual Wellbeing Wellbeing of Natural & Built Environments Community Wellbeing by the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association in April 2015. Values Public Good Inclusion & Equity Sustainability Definition: Principles of Operation Lifelong Outcome- Quality & Evidence- Recreation is the experience that results from freely chosen Participation Driven Relevance Based Partnerships Innovation participation in physical, social, intellectual, creative, and spiritual Goals pursuits that enhance individual and community wellbeing. Active Inclusion Connecting Supportive Recreation Living & Access People & Nature Environments Capacity
Vision: We envision a Canada in which everyone is engaged in meaningful, accessible recreation experiences that foster: Priorities - Participation Equitable participation - Natural spaces and - Provide essential - Collaborative throughout for all, regardless of places spaces and places system • Individual wellbeing the lifecourse socioeconomic status, - Comprehensive - Use existing - Career - Physical literacy age, culture, race, system of parks structures and spaces development - Play Aboriginal status, - Public awareness for multiple purposes - Advanced • Community wellbeing - Reduce gender, ability, sexual and education - Renew infrastructure education sedentary orientation or - Minimize negative - Active transportation - Capacity behaviours geographic location impacts - Partnerships in social development • The wellbeing of our natural and built environments environment - Community - Recreation education leadership - Assessment tools - Volunteers - Align community - Knowledge initiatives development
Part II: A Framework for Recreation in Canada 2015 17
15 Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L)
Canadian Sport for Life (CS4L) is a movement that promotes quality sport and physical activity. It is led by Sport for Life Society, a federal not for profit society that was incorporated in September 2014 and comprises experts from sport, health, recreation, and academia who are employed as independent contractors, yet work cooperatively to promote the movement’s goals. The movement introduces two important concepts that influence how recreation and sport activity should be planned, promoted, organized, and delivered.
The Long-Term Athlete Development framework is a seven- stage training, competition, and recovery pathway guiding an individual’s experience in sport and physical activity from infancy through all phases of adulthood. Physical literacy is the motivation, confidence, physical competence, knowledge, and understanding to value and take responsibility for engagement in physical activities for life.
Canadian Sport for Life, with Long-Term Athlete Development and physical literacy, represents a paradigm shift in the way Canadians lead and deliver sport and physical activity. The movement calls on municipalities to help further these two important concepts in a variety of ways as outlined below. As it relates to the provision of indoor recreation services and facilities, it is important to consider these roles and the fundamentals of the two concepts as they define a broader social good that is delivered through recreation, ensuring that these concepts are catalyzed through all municipal recreation services, will optimize the benefits and value for public investment in facilities and infrastructure.
Where municipalities can help further the CS4L movement: 1. Physical Literacy Program Development 2. Municipal Planning and Sport Strategy Development 3. Sport Councils 4. Facility Planning 5. Access and Allocation
16 Four
The Benefits of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure
The benefits of recreation, parks, and leisure pursuits are substantiated by research and are becoming increasingly recognized by all levels of government. The following section identifies the key benefits statements from the National Benefits HUB. Key Findings • Recreation, parks, and leisure are essential to personal National Benefits HUB: The Benefits health and wellbeing. 1 • Recreation, parks, and leisure of Recreation, Parks, and Leisure build strong families and The National Benefits HUB is a research database which provides access to numerous healthy communities. resources that identify the positive impacts of recreation, sport, fitness, arts/culture, • Green spaces are essential heritage, parks and green spaces on a community. Identified in this section are the eight to environmental and key messages from the National Benefits HUB, with corresponding evidence related to ecological wellbeing. how recreation and culture can positively impact a community and its residents.
Recreation, parks, and leisure are essential to personal health and wellbeing. • Increased leisure time and physical activity improves life expectancy.2 • Physical activity contributes to improved mental health and reduced rates of depression.3 • Participation in physical activity can reduce workplace related stress.4 • The provision of green spaces has been linked with a number of health and wellbeing benefits including; increased physical activity, reduced risk of obesity, minimized utilization of the healthcare system, and stress reduction.5
1 benefitshub.ca 2 Moore SC, et al. (2012) Leisure Time Physical Activity of Moderate to Vigorous Intensity and Mortality: A Large Pooled Cohort Analysis. PLoS Medicine 9 (11): e1001335. doi:10.1371/journal.pmed.1001335 3 Gallegos-Carillo, Katia et al. (2012). Physical Activity and Reduced Risk of Depression: Results of a Longitudinal Study of Mexican Adults. Health Psychology. In press. doi: 10.1037/a0029276 4 Burton, James P. , Hoobler, Jenny M. and Scheuer, Melinda L. (2012) Supervisor Workplace Stress and Abusive Supervision: The Buffering Effect of Exercise. Journal of Business and Psychology. 5 Heinze, John. (2011). Benefits of Green Space – Recent Research. Chantilly, Virginia: Environmental Health Research Foundation.
17 Recreation, parks, and leisure provide the key to balanced Recreation, parks, and leisure reduce self-destructive and human development. anti-social behavior. • Regular physical activity is likely to provide children with the • Youth participation in recreational activities such as camps optimum physiological condition for maximizing learning.6 increases leadership and social capacities.13 • Low income students who are involved in arts activities • Participation in recreation and leisure related activities have higher academic achievement and are more likely by low income and other at risk children and youth to go to college.7 populations can result in decreased behavioural/ • The arts and other forms of creativity can have profound emotional problems, decreased use of emergency individual social outcomes and generate a deeper sense services, and enhanced physical and psycho-social health 14 of place and local community.8 of families. • Individuals that participate in physical activity in a social • Teen athletes are less likely to use illicit drugs, smoke, 15 setting have improved psychological and social health, or to be suicidal. and often also benefit from increased self-awareness Recreation, parks, and leisure build strong families and and personal growth.9 healthy communities. Recreation, parks, and leisure provide a foundation for • People with an active interest in the arts contribute more quality of life. to society than those with little or no such interest.16 • The arts are seen as an important contributor to quality • Evidence indicates that adults who attend art museums, of life in communities.10 art galleries, or live arts performances are far more likely • High quality public spaces can enhance the sense of than non-attendees to vote, volunteer, or take part in 17 community in new neighbourhoods.11 community events. • Community sport facilities have positive benefits related • Structured sport and recreational activities can help foster a 18 to increased accessibility, exposure, participation, stronger sense of community among children and youth. perceptions of success, and improved sport experiences.12
6 Marten, Karen. (2010). Brain boost: Sport and physical activity enhance children’s learning. Crawley, Western Australia: University of Western Australia. 7 Catteral, James S. (2012). The Arts and Achievement in At-Risk Youth: Findings from Four Longitudinal Studies. Washington, District of Columbia: National Endowment for the Arts 13 Henderson, K., Scanlin, M., Whitaker, L., et al. (2005) Intentionality and 8 Mulligan, M. et al. (2006). Creating Community: Celebrations, Arts and Youth Development Through Camp Experiences. Canadian Congress on Wellbeing Within and Across Local Communities. Melbourne, Australia: Leisure Research. 11th, Nanaimo, British Columbia. Globalism Institute, RMIT University 14 Totten, M. (2007). Access to Recreation for Low-Income Families in Ontario: 9 Eime, Rochelle M et al. (2013). A systematic review of the psychological and The Health, Social and Economic Benefits of Increasing Access to Recreation for social benefits of participation in sport for adults: informing development of a Low-Income Families; Research Summary Report. Toronto, Ontario: Ministry of conceptual model of health through sport. International Journal of Behavioral Health Promotion. Nutrition and Physical Activity. 10(35). 15 Poway High School Library. (2001). Teens and sports: The perfect combination? 10 Environics Research Group. (2010). The Arts and the Quality of Life. The attitudes Better Nutrition, 63(9), 16. of Ontarians. Toronto, Ontario: Ontario Arts Council. 16 LeRoux, Kelly. (2012). Interest in Arts Predicts Social Responsibility. 11 Francis, Jacinta et al. (2012). Creating sense of community: The role of public Chicago:University of Illinois at Chicago. Press Release. space. Journal of Environmental Psychology. 32(4): 401- 409. http://dx.doi. 17 National Endowment for the Arts. (2009. Art-Goers in Their Communities: org/10.1016/j.jenvp.2012.07.002 Patterns of Civic and Social Engagement. Nea Research Note #98. Washington, 12 Henderson, K., Scanlin, M., Whitaker, L., et al. (2005) Intentionality and Youth D.C.: Author. Development Through Camp Experiences. Canadian Congress on Leisure 18 Hutchinson, Susan L. (2011). Physical Activity, Recreation, Leisure, Research. 11th, Nanaimo, British Columbia. and Sport: Essential Pieces of the Mental Health and Well-being Puzzle.
18 Recreation, parks, and leisure reduce health care, Green spaces are essential to environmental and social service, and police/justice costs. ecological wellbeing. • Physical inactivity has a number of direct and indirect • Sustainable public green spaces provide crucial areas financial impacts on all levels of government.19 for residents of all demographics to be physically and 24 • Parks and recreation programming during non-school socially active. hours can reduce costs associated with juvenile • Increasing green spaces in urban centres has a number delinquency and obesity.20 of positive environmental outcomes which can increase 25 • Increased fitness leads to lowered risk factors for sustainability and lower long term infrastructure costs. substance abuse among youth populations.21 • When children and youth have positive experiences with parks and green spaces, they are more likely to have Recreation, parks, and leisure are a significant stronger attitudes towards conservation and preservation economic generator. of the environment as adults.26 • Recent Canadian research indicated that cultural activities have the potential to be significant drivers of economic outputs and employment.22 • Evidence suggests that creative activity shapes the competitive character of a city by enhancing both its innovative capacity and the quality of place so crucial to attracting and retaining skilled workers.23
Provides a foundation Is essential for quality Provides the to personal of life. key to balanced health and human development. wellbeing.
Reduces health care, Recreation, Parks, Reduces self- social service, destructive and and police/justice costs. and Leisure anti-social behaviour.
Green spaces Is a signi cant are essential economic generator. Builds strong to wellbeing. and healthy communities.
19 Canadian Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (CAHPERD). (2004) Physical Activity: Health benefits and costs to health care system. Ottawa, Ontario: Author. 20 Witt, Peter A and Cladwell, Linda L. (2010).The Scientific Evidence Relating to the Impact of Recreation on Youth Development, in The Rationale for Recreation Services for Youth: An Evidenced Based Approach. Ashburn, Virginia: National Recreation and Parks Association. 21 Collingwood, Thomas R. et al. (2000). Physical Training as a Substance Abuse Prevention Intervention for Youth. Journal of Drug Education. 30 (4): 435-451. 24 Cohen, D. et al. (2007). Contribution of Public Parks to Physical Activity. 22 Momer, Bernard. (2011) Our City, Ourselves: A Cultural Landscape Assessment American Journal of Public Health, 97(3), 509. of Kelowna, British Columbia. Kelowna, British Columbia: City of Kelowna 25 Groth, P. (2008). Quantifying the Greenhouse Gas Benefits of Urban Parks. Recreation and Cultural Services. San Francisco, California: The Trust for Public Land. 23 Gertler, M. (2004). Creative cities: What are they for, how do they work, and how 26 Place, G. (2004). Youth Recreation Leads to Adult Conservation. do we build them? Ottawa, Ontario: Canadian Policy Research Network. Chicago, Illinois: Chicago State University.
19 Five
Trends and Leading Practices
Participation A review of trends can help identify leading practices in the delivery of recreation Key Findings services as well as emerging or evolving interests that may be important to consider when developing programming and infrastructure. Summarized in the following • Unstructured spontaneous section are selected trends related to participation, the provision of recreation activities are increasing opportunities (service delivery), volunteerism, and infrastructure. in popularity. • Partnerships optimize opportunities in the Physical Activity and Wellness Levels delivery of recreation, parks, and leisure services. The Canadian Health Measures Survey (Statistics Canada) concludes that the fitness • Multi-use pathway systems levels of Canadian children and youth, as well as adults, have declined significantly are often seen as being a between 1981 and 2009. Among youth aged 15 to 19, the percentage who were at an given with park design as increased or high risk of health problems more than tripled; for adults aged 20 to 39 they facilitate a wide range of this percentage quadrupled. recreational uses and serve a In Alberta it appears that a number of demographic and socioeconomic factors transportation function. contribute significantly to overall physical activity and wellness levels. Listed below • Overall societal physical activity are relevant findings from the 2013 Alberta Survey on Physical Activity: levels remain concerning. • Although 94% of Albertans agree that physical activity will keep them healthy, • The concept of social only 59% are considered active enough to gain health benefits. inclusion has increasingly become an issue that many • Age appears to significantly impact activity levels: communities are addressing »» 87% of young adults aged 18 to 24 are considered physically active. through recreation, parks, »» Only 37% of seniors aged 65 and older meet sufficient physical activity levels. and leisure services. • Household income has a direct impact on physical activity levels, with physical • The nature of volunteerism activity generally decreasing in relation to overall household income levels. is changing; volunteers are looking for more defined • 75% of Albertans believe that they have sufficient access to places where they roles and motivated by can be physically active. different outcomes than in • Educational attainment relates to physical activity; 60.9% of Albertans that generations past. completed high school are considered physically active as compared to only 46.1% among Albertans that did not completed high school.
20 • Marital status appears to factor into activity levels: Physical Activity Preferences »» 66.8% of ‘single’ Albertans are active. »» 64.1% of ‘common-law/live-in partner’ The 2013 Canadian Community Health Survey reveals data that Albertans are active. provides some insight into the recreation and leisure preferences of Canadians. The top 5 most popular adult activities identified »» 63.2% of ‘separated’ Albertans are active. were walking, gardening, home exercise, swimming and bicycling. »» 57.9% of ‘married’ Albertans are active. The top five most popular youth activities were walking, bicycling, 1 »» 56.9% of ‘divorced’ Albertans are active. swimming, running/jogging and basketball. Participation levels and preferences for sporting activities continue to garner much »» 34.8% of ‘widowed’ Albertans are active. attention given the impact on infrastructure development and Physical activity trends remain especially concerning for overall service delivery in most municipalities. The Canadian children and youth. The 2015 ParticipACTION Report Card Fitness & Lifestyle Research Institutes 2011 – 2012 Sport Monitor on Physical Activity for Children and Youth (formerly Active Report identified a number of updated statistics and trends 2 Healthy Kids Canada) found that only 9% of 5 to 17 year olds pertaining to sport participation in Canada. in Canada meet the recommended levels for moderate to • The highest proportion of Canadians prefers non- vigorous physical activity. Contributing factors and other competitive sports or activities. Nearly half (44%) of concerning findings from the Report Card include: Canadians preferred non-competitive sports while 40% • Only 24% of 5 to 17 year olds use active transportation like both noncompetitive and competitive sports. Only 8% methods to or from school while the majority (62%) use of Canadians prefer competitive sports or activities and inactive transportation methods. 8% prefer neither competitive nor non-competitive sports. • Only 26% of Canadian youth aged 8 to 12 meet or exceed • Sport participation is directly related to age. Nearly three- the minimum level recommended for the physical quarters (70%) of Canadians aged 15 – 17 participate in sports, competence domain of physical literacy. with participation rates decreasing in each subsequent age group. The largest fall-off in sport participation occurs • During waking hours, 5 to 17 year olds spend an average between the age categories of 15 – 17 and 18 – 24 (~20%). of 8.5 hours being sedentary. • In contrast to children and youth populations (in Poor physical activity levels nationally do not appear to result which gender participation rates are relatively equal), from a lack of interest or awareness of the issues surrounding substantially more adult men (45%) than adult women child and youth physical inactivity. The Report Card found (24%) participate in organized sport. that 90% of high school students (grades 9 – 12) in Ontario • Participation in sport is directly related to household and Alberta report that their parents are very supportive or income levels. Households with an annual income of supportive of them being physically active and 79% of parents greater than $100,000 have the highest participation contribute financially to their kids’ physical activities. levels, nearly twice as high as households earning between $20,000 and $39,999 annually and over three times as high as households earning less than $20,000 annually. • The highest proportion of sport participants play in “structured environments.” Just under half (48%) of sport participants indicated that their participation occurs primarily in organized environments, while 20% participate in unstructured or casual environments; 32% do so in both structured and unstructured environments. • Community sport programs and venues remain important. The vast majority (82%) of Canadians that participate in sport do so within the community. Approximately one-fifth (21%) participate at school while 17% participate in sports at work. A significant proportion (43%) also indicated that they participate in sporting activities at home.
1 Statistics Canada: http://www.statcan.gc.ca/daily-quotidien/140612/ dq140612b-eng.htm 2 Canadian Fitness & Lifestyle Research Institutes 2011 – 2012 Sport Monitor: http://www.cflri.ca/node/78
21 A research paper entitled “Sport Participation 2010” published by The Paper further identifies a number of broad participation Canadian Heritage also identified a number of trends pertaining trends related specifically to sport focused participation to participation in specific sports. The following graph illustrates utilizing Statistics Canada data from the 2010 Federal Census national trends in active sport participation from 1992 – 2010. and the General Social Survey. Broader trends effecting overall As reflected in the graph, swimming (as a sport) has experienced sport participation noted by the Paper include: the most significant decrease while soccer has had the highest • National sport participation levels continue to decline. rate of growth while golf and hockey remain the two most In 2010, 7.2 million or 26% of Canadians age 15 and older played sports in Canada. participated regularly in sport; this represents a 17% Note: Data includes both youth, amateur, and adult sport participants.3 decline over the past 18 years. • The gender gap in sport participation has increased. • Sport participation decreases as Canadians age; the most Active Participation Rate significant drop off occurs after age 19. 1992 – 2010 • Education and income levels impacts impact sport participation. Canadians with a University education and those making more than $80,000 annually have the Golf highest rates of sport participation. • Established immigrants participate in sport less than recent immigrants and Canadian born. Ice Hockey • Students (15 years and older) participate in sport in greater numbers than any labour force group.
Soccer • Participation is highly concentrated in a few sports. Participants in golf, ice hockey, and soccer tend to prefer these three sports and have less diversity in their overall sporting pursuits than participants of other sports. Baseball • Women are more likely than men to have a coach. Female sport participants tend to use the services of a coach more 1992 Volleyball often than male sport participants and this difference 1998 appears to increase with age. 2006 • The most important benefit of sport participation is Basketball 2010 relaxation and fun. Relaxation and fun were ranked as being important by 97% of sport participants. • A lack of time and interest are the main reasons for not Skiing (Downhill) participating in sport.
Cycling
Swimming
Badminton
0% 5% 10%15% 20%25%
3 Government of Canada: http://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2013/ pc-ch/CH24-1-2012-eng.pdf
22 The Alberta Recreation Survey, commissioned every 4 – 5 years by Alberta Tourism, Parks and Recreation, additionally provides data into the activity preferences of Albertans. The recent (2013) Survey found that Albertans continue to enjoy an array of physical activity, recreation and leisure pursuits. The following graphic depicts the top 5 activities for a variety of activity types.
of respondents have participated 2013 Alberta Recreation Survey in a leisure or recreation activity 97.6% (in the past 12 months) Participation in Activities by Respondents (Past 12 Months) 2013 Alberta Recreation Survey Highest Lowest Participation Participation
Top 5 Activities (By % of Respondents Participating)
Creative/Cultural Physical Activities Outdoor Activities Snow Activities Water Activities Group Activities Activities
Attending Fair/ Walking for Downhill Motor Bowling/ 80.5%Gardening 61.0% Festival/ 65.1% 17.5% 18.2% 12.1% Pleasure Skiing Boating Lawn Bowling Cultural Event
Visiting a Tobogganing/ Bicycling 42.3%Day Hiking 37.8% Museum/ 48.2% 16.0%Canoeing 10.9%Curling 7.7% Sledding Art Gallery
Aerobics/ Golf Doing a Craft or Cross-country 38.1% (other than driving 32.8% 47.3% 12.4%Kayaking 8.1% Ice Hockey 5.9% Fitness range or mini golf) Creative Hobby Skiing
Swimming/ Overnight Attending 31.9% 30.8% 46.5% Snowshoeing 8.8% Water Skiing 5.4% Soccer5.1% Aqua tness Camping Live Theatre (in pools) (not movies)
Swimming Taking Part Softball/ (in lakes, 31.3% Fishing 20.0% 21.0% Snowmobiling 3.9% River Rafting 4.7% 4.4% rivers, ponds) in the Arts Baseball
23 Balancing Structured Barriers to Participation and Spontaneous Uses Research and available data supports that many Canadians face barriers that impact their ability to reap the numerous While many structured or organized activities remain important, physical, social, and mental benefits that are accrued from there is an increasing demand for more flexibility in timing participation in recreation and leisure pursuits. Understanding and activity choice. People are seeking individualized, informal these barriers can help service providers identify strategies to pursuits that can be done alone or in small groups, at flexible mitigate issues and encourage participation. times, often near or at home. This does not however eliminate the need for structured activities and the stakeholder groups The following graph adapted from the 2014 CIBC – KidSport that provide them. Instead, this trend suggests that planning Report reflects barriers to participation in sport for 3 to 17 for the general population is as important as planning for year olds in Canada. As reflected in the graph, the cost of traditional structured use environments. enrollment, the cost of equipment, and a lack of interest were identified as the top 3 barriers. Analyzing the issue further, if recreation budgets do not increase to accommodate this expanded scope of spontaneous use The 2013 Alberta Recreation Survey also identified barriers that planning, it may be necessary for municipalities to further Albertans perceive as preventing them from participating in partner with dedicated use organizations (e.g. sport teams) recreation and leisure pursuits. The top 3 barriers identified by in the provision of programs and facilities to ensure the respondents were: 1) Too busy with other activities; 2) too busy optimal use of public funds. with family; and 3) too busy with work.
Cost of Enrollment Fees 61% Flexibility and Adaptability Cost of Equipment 52% Recreation consumers have a greater choice of activity options than at any time in history. As a result, service providers are being Child Lacks Interest in Sports 42% required to ensure that their approach to delivery is fluid and is able to quickly adapt to meet community demand. Many municipalities Location of Programs/Clubs/ 26% have also had to make hard decisions on which activities they Facilities is Inconvenient are able to directly offer or support, versus those which are more appropriate to leave to the private sector to provide. Work Commitments ofParents/Guardians 25%
Ensuring that programming staff and management are current on The Time of Day/Day of Weekof 23% trends is important in the identification and planning of programming. Program is Inconvenient Regular interaction and data collection (e.g. customer surveys) Organized Sports are Too Competitive/ 19% from members are other methods that service providers use Too Much Focus on Winning to help identify programs that are popular and in demand. Lack of Awareness of the Programs 15% The development of multi-use spaces can also help ensure Available in the Community that municipalities have the flexibility to adapt to changing interests and activity preferences. Other Family Commitments of Parents/Guardians 14%
Limited Access to Good Quality Sports Facilities 13%
Organized Sports are Becoming Too Violent 9%
Parent/Guardian Lacks Interest in Sports 8%
Parental Under-Involvement 7%
Poor Coaching/Leadership 7%
Parental Over-Involvement 6%
Facilities/Programs are Not Accessible 5% for Children with Disabilities 0% 10% 20%30% 40%50% 60%70%
24 Seventy-six percent (76%) of municipalities with a population Providing Recreation of 1,000 to 9,999 to 80% of municipalities over 100,000 in population have formed agreements with school boards for Opportunities shared use of facilities. In fact since 2000, the proportion of municipalities that have reported working with schools, health A number of organizations play a key role in providing recreation settings, and local non-profit organizations has increased by opportunities for residents. In a typical community, the municipality, 10% to 20%. the school system, community organizations, and the private sector all play a vital role in providing opportunities. Identified as follows are a number of key considerations and factors that continue to influence the delivery of recreation and related services in many Social Inclusion communities and regions. The concept of social inclusion is becoming an issue communities are addressing. While always an important issue, its significance has risen as communities have become more diversified through Partnerships immigration. Partnerships in the provision of recreation opportunities are Social inclusion is about making sure that all children and adults becoming more prevalent. These partnerships can take a number of are able to participate as valued, respected, and contributing forms, and include government, not for profit organizations, schools members of society. It involves the basic notions of belonging, and the private sector. While the provision of recreation services acceptance, and recognition. For immigrants, social inclusion has historically relied on municipal levels of the government, many would be manifested in full and equal participation in all facets municipalities are increasingly looking to form partnerships that of a community including economic, social, cultural, and political can enhance service levels and more efficiently lever public funds. realms. It goes beyond including “outsiders” or “newcomers.” In fact social inclusion is about the elimination of the boundaries In a rural setting, partners often include agricultural societies, or barriers between “us” and “them.”5 There is a recognition that community associations, non-profit community organizations, diversity has worth unto itself and is not something that must and urban municipalities. It is common for such entities to be be overcome.6 the primary providers of spaces (indoor facilities and outdoor amenities) while the rural municipality plays a supporting While issues of social inclusion are pertinent for all members of a role in assisting them. Examples of such partnerships include community, they can be particularly relevant for adolescents of cost-sharing agreements, grants and funding assistance, immigrant families. Immigrant youth can feel pulled in opposite and non-financial support (leadership, board governance, directions between their own cultural values and a desire to volunteer recruitment, advertisements, etc.). Community halls, “fit in” to their new home. This tension can be exacerbated in ball diamonds, curling rinks, and outdoor rinks are only a few those situations in which parents are experiencing stress due examples of recreation facilities that are located in hamlets to settlement. Children living in families which are struggling and operated by community groups. Larger facilities such as are more likely to be excluded from some of the aspects of life aquatic centres and multiplex facilities are often located and essential to their healthy development. Children are less likely operated in an urban municipality as these facilities require a to have positive experiences at school, less likely to participate larger, denser population base; cost-sharing agreements allow in recreation, and less likely to get along well with friends, rural residents subsidized access to these facilities without the if they live in families struggling with parental depression, rural municipality having to operate its own. family dysfunction, or violence.7
Other examples of partnerships include facility naming and sponsorship arrangements, lease/contract agreements, the contracted operation of spaces, entire facilities, or delivery of programs. According to one study,4 over three-quarters (76%) of Canadian municipalities work with schools in their communities to encourage the participation of municipal residents in physical activities. Just under half of Canadian municipalities work with local non-profits (46%), health settings (40%), or workplaces (25%) to encourage participation in physical activities amongst their residents. 5 Omidvar, Ratna, Ted Richmand (2003). Immigrant Settlement and Social Inclusion in Canada. The Laidlaw Foundation. 6 Harvey, Louise (2002). Social Inclusion Research in Canada: Children and Youth. The Canadian Council on Social Development’s “Progress of Canada’s Children”. 4 “Municipal Opportunities for Physical Activity” Bulletin 6: Strategic 7 Harvey, Louise (2002). Social Inclusion Research in Canada: Children and Youth. partnerships. 2010, Canadian Fitness & Lifestyle Research Institute. The Canadian Council on Social Development’s “Progress of Canada’s Children”.
25 Community Development The combined factors of decreasing support from other levels of government, increasing demand for new and exciting recreation infrastructure and programs, and the changing nature of the volunteer has led many municipalities to adopt a community development focus in service delivery. This, in addition to the direct delivery of recreation facilities and programs, includes the facilitation of empowering local non-profit groups to operate facilities and/or offer programs to residents thereby levering public resources and providing more value for public investment.
Community development is the process of creating change through a model of greater public participation; the engagement of the entire community from the individual up. The concept of community development has a broader reach than just the delivery of recreation programs and facilities; it is commonly understood to be the broader involvement of the general public in decision making and delivery. Community development in recreation delivery encompasses supporting and guiding volunteer groups to ultimately become self-sufficient while providing facilities and programs.
Financial Barriers Financial barriers to participation in recreation, sport, and cultural activities continue to exist for many Albertans. Understanding the potential benefits that can result from engaging citizens in a broad range of activities and programs, municipalities have undertaken a number of initiatives aimed at removing financial barriers. Current initiatives being led or supported by many municipalities include the Canadian Parks and Recreation Association’s ‘Everybody Gets to Play’ program, KidSport, and JumpStart. The Town of Okotoks has also demonstrated a commitment to reducing financial barriers through its Fee Assistance Program and by providing no or low cost programs and opportunities.
26 • Mandatory volunteering. There are mandatory volunteer Volunteerism programs through Workfare, Community Service Order and school mandated community work. Volunteers continue to be vitally important to the planning and delivery of numerous events and programs. Identified as follows • Volunteering by contract. The changing volunteer environment are a number of pertinent trends in volunteerism that may is redefining volunteer commitment as a negotiated and mutually impact or have relevancy to the delivery of programming and beneficial arrangement rather than a one-way sacrifice of time facility operations. Findings are from the 2010 Canada Survey by the volunteer. of Giving, Volunteering and Participating: Alberta data tables.8 • Risk management. Considered part of the process of job design for volunteers, risk management ensures the organization can • Albertans volunteer at a higher rate (54.7%) than the place the right volunteer in the appropriate activity. national average (47.0%). • Borrowing best practices. The voluntary sector has responded • The highest volunteer rate in Alberta is among adults to the changing environment by adopting corporate and aged 35 to 44 (63.4%) followed by ages 15 to 24 (56.7%) public sector management practices including standards, and ages 55 to 64 (51.3%). codes of conduct, accountability and transparency measures • Although seniors (65 years and older) had the lowest around program administration, demand for evaluation, volunteer rate (49.6%), they had the highest average of and outcome measurement. annual volunteer hours (206 hours on average per year). • Professional volunteer management. Managers of The following are nine current trends in volunteerism as volunteer resources are working toward establishing an equal identified by Volunteer Canada.9 footing with other professionals in the voluntary sector. • Much comes from the few. While 47% of Canadians • Board governance. Volunteer boards must respond to the volunteer, over one-third (34%) of all volunteer hours were challenge of acting as both supervisors and strategic planners. contributed by 5% of total volunteers. • The new volunteer. Young people volunteer to gain work related skills (Canadians aged 15 – 24 volunteer more than any other age group). New Canadians also volunteer to develop work experience and to practice language skills. Persons with disabilities may volunteer as a way to more fully participate in community life. • Volunteer job design. Volunteer job design can be the best defense for changing demographics and fluctuations in funding.
8 Data compiled by Statistics Canada. http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/ 89-649-x/2011001/tbl/tbl210-eng.htm 9 Alberta Heritage Community Foundation. http://www.abheritage.ca/volunteer/ index.html
27 Infrastructure Integrating Indoor and Outdoor Environments Aging Infrastructure A new concept in recreation infrastructure planning is to ensure The recently released Canadian Infrastructure Report Card10 that the indoor environment interacts seamlessly with the outdoor included an assessment and analysis of the state of sport and recreation environment. This can include such ideas as indoor/ recreation facilities in Canada. The report revealed a number of outdoor walking trails, indoor/outdoor child play areas, and concerns and issues that will impact the delivery of sport and indoor/outdoor aquatics facilities. Although there are a number recreation infrastructure over the next number of years. Key of operational issues that need to be considered when planning findings from the report included the following. indoor/outdoor environments (e.g. cleaning, controlled access, etc.) the concept of planning an indoor facility to complement the • The Report Card demonstrates that Canada’s infrastructure, site it is located on (and associated outdoor amenities included) as including sport and recreation facilities, is at risk of rapid well as the broader community parks and trail system is prudent deterioration unless there is immediate investment. and will ensure the optimization of public spending on both • The average annual reinvestment rate in sport and recreation indoor and outdoor recreation infrastructure. Integrating indoor facilities is currently 1.3% (of capital value) while the and outdoor environments can be as “simple” as ensuring interiors recommended target rate of reinvestment is 1.7% – 2.5%. have good opportunities to view the outdoors. • Almost 1 in 2 sport and recreation facilities are in ‘very poor’, ‘poor’ or ‘fair’ condition and need repair or replacement. Ensuring Accessibility • In comparison to other municipal infrastructure assessed Many current recreation and cultural facilities are putting in the Report Card, sport and recreation facilities were in a significant focus on ensuring that user experiences are the worst state and require immediate attention. comfortable including meeting accessibility requirements • The Report Card indicated that the extrapolated and incorporating designs that can accommodate various replacement value of sport and recreation facilities in body types. Programming is made as accessible as possible ‘poor’ or ‘very poor’ condition is $9 billion while those in via “layering” to provide the broadest appeal possible to ‘fair’ condition require $14 billion. intellectual preferences.
Meeting the needs of various user groups is also an important aspect of accessibility. Incorporating mobile technologies, Multi-Use Spaces rest spaces, child-friendly spaces, crafts areas, and educational Recreation spaces are being designed to accommodate multiple multi-purpose rooms for classes and performances is an activities and to encompass a variety of different components. emerging trend. Accessibility guidelines set by governments, The benefits of designing multi-use spaces include the as well as an increased understanding of the needs of opportunity to create operational efficiencies, attract a wide different types of visitors is fueling this trend. Technology spectrum of users, and procure multiple sources of revenue. is also being embraced as a modern communication tool Providing the opportunity for all family members to take part useful for effectively sharing messages with younger, more in different opportunities simultaneously at the same location technologically savvy audiences. additionally increases convenience and satisfaction for residences. Creating spaces within a facility that are easily adaptable and Social Amenities re-configurable is another growing trend observed in many newer and retrofitted facilities. Many performing arts venues are The inclusion of social amenities provides the opportunity for being designed in such a manner that staging, seating, and wall multi-purpose community recreation to maximize the overall configurations can be easily changed as required. Similarly, visual experience for users as well as to potentially attract non-traditional arts spaces such as studios and galleries are being designed in a patrons to the facility. Examples of social amenities include manner that allows them to be used for a multitude of different art attractive lobby areas, common spaces, restaurants and cafeterias, creation and display purposes. Gymnasium spaces and community spectator viewing areas, meeting facilities, and adjacent outdoor hall facilities are being designed with adjustable barriers, walls, parks or green space. It is also becoming increasingly uncommon bleachers, and other amenities that can be easily set-up or for new public facilities, especially in urban areas, to not be removed depending on the type of activity or event. equipped with public wireless Internet.
10 http://www.canadainfrastructure.ca/downloads/ Canadian_Infrastructure_Report_2016.pdf
28 Another significant benefit of equipping facilities with social While all residents benefit from the availability of quality park amenities is the opportunity to increase usage and visitation spaces, a significant amount of research and attention has to the facility during non-peak hours. Including spaces such been given to the myriad of benefits that result from children as public cafeterias and open lobby spaces can result in local and youth being able to play and interact in outdoor settings. residents visiting the facility during non-event or non-program Findings include: hours to meet friends or is simply a part of their daily routine. • Children who play regularly in natural environments show Many municipalities and non-profit organizations have encouraged more advanced motor fitness, including coordination, this non-peak hour use in order to ensure that the broader balance and agility, and they are sick less often.13 populace perceives that the facility is accessible and available to all members of the community. • Exposure to natural environments improves children’s cognitive development by improving their awareness, reasoning, and observational skills.14 • Children who play in nature have more positive feelings Urban Parks Systems about each other.15 A well balanced inventory of park spaces and amenities is • Outdoor environments are important to children’s required to achieve all the potential benefits that parks can development of independence and autonomy.16 provide. The sum of each individual park within a municipality • Children with views of and contact with nature score creates an urban parks system, including both constructed higher on tests of concentration and self-discipline. The parks and protected natural areas as well as the linkages greener, the better the scores.17 between them.
Active Transportation Providing Quality Parks Active transportation refers to any form of human-powered and Outdoor Spaces transportation, such as walking, cycling, using a wheelchair, in-line skating, or skateboarding.18 In 2011 in Canada, 5.7% Research supports that individuals continue to place a high value on of commuters walked to work regularly while 1.3% cycled, the availability and quality of parks, trails, and outdoor spaces. A 2013 accounting for over one million Canadians.19 Canadian study commissioned by the TD Friends of the Environment Foundation found that nearly two-thirds of respondents (64%) A generational trend is that younger professionals are using indicated that local parks were “very important” to them and active modes of transportation more now than ever. A number their family. Additionally, 68% of Canadians are concerned of factors are contributing to this such as people are becoming 11 about the loss of green space in their community. more environmentally conscious, financial limitations (active transportation is generally a cheaper mode of transportation), Another 2011 study of over 1,100 parents of 2 to 12 year olds in the and a trend is occurring in which people are moving back from United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom found that the the suburbs into urban communities in which places of work more time a family spends together at a playground, the greater are closer in proximity to place of residence. their overall sense of family wellbeing. Three-quarters also wished that their family had time to visit a playground more often.12
Parks and outdoor spaces also play a key role in helping to 13 Grahn, P., Martensson, F., Llindblad, B., Nilsson, P., & Ekman, A., (1997). UTE pa combat “nature deficit disorder” amongst children and youth. DAGIS, Stad & Land nr. 93/1991 Sveriges lantbruksuniversitet, Alnarp. This phrase, first coined by Richard Louv in his bestselling book “Last Child in the Woods,” suggests that children are becoming 14 Pyle, Robert (1993). The thunder trees: Lessons from an urban wildland. Boston: estranged from nature and natural play, which results in a Houghton Mifflin. number of cognitive, physical, and developmental issues. 15 Moore, Robin (1996). Compact Nature: The Role of Playing and Learning Gardens on Children’s Lives, Journal of Therapeutic Horticulture, 8, 72-82 16 Bartlett, Sheridan (1996). Access to Outdoor Play and Its Implications for Healthy Attachments. Unpublished article, Putney, VT 17 Taylor, A.F., Kuo, F.E. & Sullivan, W.C. (2002). Views of Nature and Self-Discipline: Evidence from Inner City Children, Journal of Environmental Psychology, 22, 49-63 18 Public Health Agency of Canada. 11 TD Friends of the Environment Foundation survey. Conducted by Ipsos Reid (2013). http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/hp-ps/hl-mvs/pa-ap/at-ta-eng.php 12 Harris Interactive (2011). Playgrounds Increase Sense Of Family Well-Being. 19 Statistics Canada. 2011. Commuting to Work. https://www12.statcan.gc.ca/ Washington, District of Columbia. Foresters. nhs-enm/2011/as-sa/99-012-x/99-012-x2011003_1-eng.cfm
29 Urban parks encourage active traffic through its boundaries if they are adjacent to a roadway or can provide a shortcut Recreational Use of through the community. Pathway systems that connect Natural Water Bodies neighbourhoods across the municipality are becoming increasingly important to accommodate alternative methods The lakes, rivers, and streams attract recreational users for a of transportation. Multi-use pathway systems are often seen as variety of activities and access to wilderness areas. Fishing, being a given with park design as they facilitate a wide range canoeing, kayaking, swimming, power boating, and other of recreational uses and serve a transportation function. water based activities are often complemented by extensive access to adjacent trails and recreational areas. Water based Relationships should be constantly analyzed to enhance recreational activities are categorized as spontaneous/ pathway systems such as the amenities on pathways and unstructured activities as participation takes place whenever user numbers, lighting and its effects on night usage, and the participant chooses and registration is not required. As the surface material and the types of usage (e.g. bicycling, described earlier, recreation trends suggests that there is walking). An analysis of why certain pathways receive high a stronger desire towards these types of activities versus usage can be applied to other corridors that do not attract organized, structured team activities. According to the Alberta as much active traffic volume. Gathering utilization data with Recreation Survey (2013), more people in Alberta participate trail trackers is a practice that municipalities are beginning to in powerboating, canoeing, and kayaking than hockey, soccer, undertake on a regular basis. and baseball.
Some river activities are reliant on the water’s flow rate and Preserving Heritage and Culture depth. Although adjusting a river’s depth and flow rate is not within the scope of a municipality’s recreation and/or Preserving and further developing the historical aspects parks department, it is still beneficial to be aware of these of an urban parks system embed the importance of these recreation preferences. Environmentally sustainable practices spaces within the community and increase resident interest such as managed access points, zoning of sensitive areas (e.g. and utilization. Municipalities can showcase the history of restricted access to power boats, etc.), and fishing restrictions a community via its prominent community builders and are being developed and promoted to ensure that negative significant events from the past by dedicating the name of a impacts due to recreation participation are limited. park, including interpretative information, and displaying art installations that contribute to a sense of place.
Aspects of culture can be celebrated and persevered in parks. In Chinese gardens, for example, plants are carefully selected for their symbolic association and installed to dictate the arrangement of spaces. The idea that a garden should invite aesthetic appreciation and the enjoyment of nature is important to Chinese park visitors, but may not be limited to a single culture. Festival venues, art displays, amphitheatres, and garden features are examples of culture infrastructure in urban parks that can set a municipality apart by providing identity- defining features and iconic places.
30 Six
Inventory
Inventory Overview In addition to the amenities highlighted in the Indoor Amenities chart below and the Outdoor Amenities chart on page 32, Okotoks has 85 km of pathways, 2km nature/ Key Findings interpretive trails (of which 1km doubles as a single for track multi-use trail), 170 ha of • Okotoks has 85 km of public parks and open spaces, and 325 ha of natural area (including the river valley). pathways, 2km of nature/ interpretive trails (of which Indoor Amenities 1km doubles as a single track Town Supported or multi-use trail), 170 ha of Town Amenity Type Partner Operated Total public parks and open spaces, Operated (including leased spaces) and 325 ha of natural area Aquatics Facilities 1 0 1 (including the river valley). Curling Rinks (Facilities) 0 1 1 • The Okotoks Recreation Centre Curling Rinks (Sheets) 0 6 6 contains two ice arena facilities Fitness Centres 0 2A 2 (three sheets with an additional Gymnasiums 1 1B 2 sheeting currently under Ice Arenas (Facilities) 2 0 2 construction), a six-sheet curling Ice Arenas (Sheets) 4C 0 4 rink, an aquatic centre, a fitness Indoor Turf Fields 0 3 3 centre, a gymnasium, a youth Walking/Running Tracks 1 1 2 centre, and various multi- Youth Centres 1 0 1 purpose and meeting spaces. Social Gathering/Banquet Facilities 0 1 1 • The Crescent Point Regional A Fitness centre at the Recreation Centre is leased to a private operator. The fitness centre at the Crescent Point Field House is jointly Regional Field House is also operated through a lease agreement. owned with the M.D. of B School gymnasiums are available for community use during certain hours (e.g. weekdays after 5:30 p.m.). Foothills and is currently C Includes the ice sheet currently under construction at the Pason Centennial Centre. operated by Nustadia. The facility includes indoor field and multi-purpose hardcourt spaces, a walking/running track, program rooms, and a fitness centre.
31 Outdoor Amenities Town Supported or The broader region also provides a number of Town Amenity Type Partner Operated Total recreation facilities which includes the Scott Operated (including leased spaces) Seaman Sports Rink, Dr. Lander Memorial Ball DiamondsD 14 1E 15 Swimming Pool, Bob Snodgrass Recreation BMX Tracks 0 1F 1 Complex, and the Cargill Field House. Community Gardens (Locations) 1 0 1 Numerous facilities are amenities are also Off Leash Dog Parks 1 0 1 available in south Calgary. Outdoor Fitness Equipment (Locations) 3 0 3 Outdoor Rinks 8 0 8 Outdoor Tracks (Asphalt) 1 0 1 Performance Stadium (Baseball) 0 1 1 Pickleball Courts 2 0 2 Playgrounds 49 0 49 Community Parks 99 0 99 Rectangular FieldsD 18G 0 18 D Includes ball diamonds and sport fields located Skateboard Park 1 0 1 on joint-use school sites. Sport Courts 1 0 1 Tennis Courts 5 0 5 E Tourmaline Field. Toboggan Hills 6 0 6 F BMX facility maintained by a user group organization. Water Spray Parks 1 0 1 G Includes two (2) football/rugby pitches.
Indoor Infrastructure Okotoks Recreation Centre The Okotoks Recreation Centre is a hub for the community as it offers a variety of activities and services. Located north of the Sheep River on Okotoks Drive, the Recreation Centre includes an aquatic centre, two ice arenas, a 6-sheet curling facility, gymnasium, fitness centre, as well as multiple program rooms and office space. The facility was built in phases and the site originally boasts separate structures until 2007 when the main building connected the facilities. Asset Category Asset Name Description Capacity Year Built ConditionG Six-lane, 25 m basin, diving board, Riley Minue Pool 3 m deep end Occupancy: 300 2007 Fair Swindells Pool Four-lane, 25 m basin, Occupancy: 175 1982 Fair Aquatics zero-depth entry tot area Hot Tub Wheelchair accessible basin Occupancy: 40 2007 Fair Sauna Dry heat Occupancy: 12 1982 Poor Spray ParkH 12 features, ~350 ft2 concrete area Occupancy: 75 2010 New NHL regulation ice surface Seating: 812 (Pad 1,360) Murray 85‘ wide x 200’ long Standing: 495 (Pad 1,596) 1982 Fair Arenas NHL regulation ice surface Seating: 350 (Pad 1,360) Piper 85‘ wide x 200’ long Standing: 150 (Pad 1,596) 1985 Fair Shane Homes Seating (Chairs): ≈596 Gymnasium Gymnasium Standing: 596 2007 New Youth center Youth center: 100 Programs Kinder care Kinder care: ≈15 2007 Fair Natural High Gym Main Building Tenant Space Natural High: 90 2007 Fair Summit Physiotherapy Summit Therapy: 50 Fitness studio space Board Room: 20 Multipurpose Board room Lecture Room: 25 Rooms Community room Community Room: 105 2007 Fair Lecture room Team Room: 6 Occupancy: 233 Curling Rink Curling Rink Six-sheet curling rink Pad: 1,596 1983 Aging G Condition rating from Town of Okotoks Asset Management. H Recently expanded with new play features and amenities.
32 Crescent Point Regional Field House Constructed and operated in partnership with the M.D. of Foothills, the Crescent Point Regional Field House contains three indoor turf fields, a multipurpose gymnasium, walking track, fitness space, and multipurpose rooms. The facility is actually located outside of Town boundaries by the hamlet of Aldersyde. Operations of the facility is contracted to Nustadia and is overseen by a regional committee made up of elected officials and public members from both Okotoks and the M.D. of Foothills.
Pason Centennial Arena The Pason Centennial Arena is a standalone spectator arena with a seating capacity of 1,500. There is a walking track in the facility which is open for the public to use at no cost. The facility was built in 2006 and the site is designed to accommodate a second ice surface.1 Besides ice activities, the venue is also used for concerts, trade shows, and conferences. The facility is home to the AJHL Okotoks Oilers and is utilized for numerous special events.
Parks and Outdoor Amenities In Okotoks there are fifteen ball diamonds and sixteen soccer pitches, and two football fields/rugby pitches available for community use. Seaman Stadium is a spectator ball diamond facility with a seating capacity of over 1,800 and is operated by the Okotoks Dawgs. Also operated by the Dawgs, adjacent to Seaman Stadium, is an indoor baseball training facility (Duvernay Fieldhouse). Two sets of tennis courts exist in Okotoks. The Tower Hill Tennis Courts are jointly managed by the Town and the Okotoks Tennis Centre while the Wilson Tennis Courts are home to the Okotoks Pickleball Club. Three courts are located at Tower Hill and two are located at the Wilson. In the winter, nine outdoor ice surfaces can be found in Okotoks. Public skating and spontaneous activities occur as the sites are always open to the public. Six toboggan hills are maintained by the Town. A BMX track is located just north of the Sheep River and is operated by the Okotoks BMX Club. Programs and racing opportunities are hosted by the club. The skateboard park, adjacent to the Okotoks Recreation Centre, was upgraded in 2014 and is used for skateboarding, BMXing, and scootering. Also by the Okotoks Recreation Centre, the water spray park typically operates from Victoria Day weekend to Labour Day weekend. Other outdoor amenities include outdoor fitness equipment (two locations), 49 playgrounds, off leash parks, community garden, a cement walking track, and one sport court. In September 2016 the Town of Okotoks and Municipal District of Foothills finalized the acquisition of Champion Park. The property was gifted by the Knowlton Family in memory of Gerald L. Knowlton. Founded in 1979, Champion Park includes not only the land, but a lake, a restored CPR railway station from Champion, Alberta, a number of outbuildings, railway tracks, a 1960s era locomotive, a 1948 mail-express car, a 1929 Executive car (“The Saskatchewan”), display and rail cars, rolling stock as well as other period equipment and railway artifacts. The park is located 5 km northeast of Okotoks and 7 km north of Aldersyde on the east side of Highway 2 at the junction of 64 Street East and Township Road 210.
1 A second ice surface is currently under construction at the Pason Centennial Centre.
33 Pathway System The Town of Okotoks maintains a pathway network, including trails in the river valley. Eighty-five kilometers (85 km) of pathways exist in the Town’s inventory (including 25 km of sidewalks and 2km of nature/interpretive trails [1km of which doubles as a single track trail for mountain biking]). The Town manages and maintains 170 ha of public parks and open spaces plus a further 325 ha of natural areas (including the river valley).
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Y Library 2.9 0.2 3.2 0.6 0.9 E CLOSE 89:| MEADOWS cleared pathways) °[ WESTRIDGE 89:| CRESCENT CRESCENT GREEN WESTLAND M E WESTFALL 89:| 89:| WESTFALL 1.6 2.2 0.1 2.9 0.9 1.3 0.3 1.3 0.1 1.0 WESTRIDGE RISE WESTFALL Municipal Centre 3.0 3.3 0.7 A LINK JM D VIEW O MEADOWS CIMARRON CIMARRON W MANOR South Ridge Emergency Services WESTMOUNT S ESTATES WAY WESTMOUNT I* CIMARRON CRESCENT MEADOWS St Mary's CIMARRON ESTATES ROAD WESTMOUNT ESTATES LINK 2.6 4.4 2.8 2.9 2.0 2.9 3.0 4.4 1.3 3.0 1.0 4.4 3.7 ROAD W ^
Off Leash Park DRIVE
E CLOSE Building (Opening Fall 2013) E.S. CIMARRON
ROAD
S T WAY 89:|
M
O ESTATES CIMARRON CIMARRON CLOSE (Current RCMP Station and Southside U 1.5 2.8 0.8 0.9 2.0 1.5 0.3 1.7 2.6 0.6 2.9 1.4 1.6 SOUTHRIDGE DRIVE N Okotoks Art Gallery POINT CIM. SOUTHBANK ROAD T MEADOWS BAY 89:| ROAD Fire Station will be closed) R 89:| PARK CIMARRON O CIMARRON BLVD GREEN A PARK BAY PARK CIMAR 32 STREET E D C.M. R Okotoks Recreation Centre 0.4 3.6 1.31.4 2.9 1.5 1.3 2.4 2.9 1.2 3.1 2.0 2.3 WAY CIM. O Westmount N
CIMARRON SPRINGS GATE WESTMOU School PARK N PARK PL CIMARRON SOUTHBANK ROAD T CIM. SPRINGS MEWS W SPRINGS
CIMARRON CIMARRON CIMAR A I$ RON S
Olde Towne Plaza 1.5 2.5 0.4 0.3 3.0 0.3 1.3 1.3 2.9 0.3 2.5 1.0 1.3 JMY CIMARRON P T R CIRCLE
HILL WESTMOUNT N I CIMARRON N
E CIM.SPRINGS COMMON CIM. G C SPRINGS
S S
WESTMOUNT CIMARRON COURT E
BAY W Pason Centennial Arena 2.7 1.2 0.9 1.3 4.4 1.7 2.4 1.3 3.7 1.4 4.1 0.9 0.5 N R GR OVE A O C ROAD WESTMOUNTGREEN BAY Y R PARK CIRCLE 89:| WESTLANDT STREET U R GROV E C A CIMARRON K M G
T E I CIMARRON SPRINGS LINK
U R R C GROVE C O PARK COVE
2.6 3.6 2.9 3.0 1.3 2.6 2.9 2.9 3.7 3.1 3.40.6 3.6 K C CIMARRON BLVD Recycling Centre CIM. CIMARRON T E I V CLOSE 89:| U R VISTA WAY SOUTHBANK BOULEVARD
WESTMOUNT E C R C GR OVE RD CIMARRON K B L VISTA GATE E L E V CIMARRON SOUTHBANK STREET CIRCLE R D PLACE C . CIMARRON WAY GROVE CIMARRON Rotary Performing Arts I CIMARRON R CIMARRON GROVE VIS 1.5 2.3 0.2 0.1 3.0 0.6 1.2 1.40.3 3.1 2.8 0.8 1.1 C DRIVE T CIRCLE A WESTMOUNT GROVE GATE L RISE WAY Centre E WESTMOUNT89:| TUCKERLINK CIMARRON
CIRCLE 89:| 2.8 3.8 3.2 3.3 1.0 2.9 3.1 2.5 4.1 0.6 2.8 4.1 4.3 CLOSEWM CIMARRON Seaman Stadium CIMARRON CIMARRON
WM VISTA
WM
BAY VISTA WM VISTA COURT MEWS GROVE CIRCLE CRESCENT COURT Sheep River Campground 0.8 2.1 0.6 0.7 4.4 1.4 2.0 1.0 0.9 3.4 0.8 4.1 0.2 HIGHWAY 7 0 0.5 1 South Ridge Emergency 2.6 1.7 0.9 1.0 3.7 1.6 2.3 1.3 0.5 1.13.6 4.3 0.2 To Black Diamond/Turner Valley (21 km) To Aldersyde (7 km) ÙÚÛ Services Building Km To Big Rock (7 km) To High River (23 km) ÙÚÜ *Grid Squares are 1 sq km
34 Regional Inventory There are a variety of recreation spaces within the region. The Crescent Point Regional Field House is located in the hamlet of Aldersyde. The Town of High River operates the Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex and Cargill Field House which includes an indoor aquatic facility, two ice arenas (one full size and one small), a four-sheet curling rink, and a multipurpose field house with a walking/running track. The Scott Seamans Sports Rink is an outdoor covered ice rink located in Black Diamond; during the non-ice season the rink is used for inline and floor sports. There are two indoor ice rinks located in the M.D. of Foothills; one in the hamlet of Blackie and one in Heritage Heights. The chart below presents an inventory of a recreation spaces in the broader Okotoks region.
Municipality High River Black Diamond Turner Valley Longview M.D. of Foothills Okotoks Arena Ice Sheets 2 1 0 0 2 4* Curling Ice Sheets 4 4 0 0 0 6 Covered Outdoor Ice Rinks 0 1 0 0 0 0 Indoor Aquatics Facilities 1 0 0 0 0 1 Outdoor Pools 0 0 1 0 0 0 Field House Facilities 1 0 0 0 1 0 Skateboard Park 1 1 0 1 0 1 Ball Diamonds 10 3 1 1 9 15 Spray Parks 1 1 1 0 0 1 Outdoor Fitness 1 1 0 1 0 3 Equipment (locations) Dog Parks 0 1 0 0 0 1 * Arena Ice Sheets for Okotoks: Includes the new ice sheet currently under construction at the Pason Centennial Centre.
Regional Map of Major Infrastructure It should be noted that the South Calgary city of Calgary is is currently • Seton Recreation Facility constructing the Seton Recreation Facility in the south Heritage Heights east quadrant of the city. It will • Scott Seaman Sports Rink (indoor) offer: 2 ice rinks; an aquatic centre (50m pool, water park, leisure pool, dive centre); 3 gymnasiums; a fitness centre; a walking track; several multipurpose rooms; an Okotoks • Pason Centennial Centre approximately 300 seat theatre; • Okotoks Recreation Centre and other spaces. A variety Black Diamond of non-municipal recreation • Scott Seamans Sports Rink (outdoor) • Oilfields Regional Arena Aldersyde (North) opportunities are also available • Oilfields Curling Club • Okotoks On Deck Ball Diamond Facility in Okotoks and the surrounding area. A recently opened climbing facility called Big Rock Bouldering Aldersyde (South) Turner Valley and a trampoline club named • Dr. Lander Memorial Swimming Pool (outdoor) • Crescent Point Regional Field House Airborne Trampoline and Tumbling are located just east of town. Hitz, a batting cage and High River • Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex indoor golf facility, is available Blackie • Cargill Field House to local residents as well. The • Blackie Arena Mountain Shadows Gymnastics Club offers recreational and competitive gymnastics and is located in Okotoks.
35 Seven
Utilization
Aquatics Total use of the pool is measured by accounting for every lane in 15 minute Key Findings increments. In 2015, the aquatic centre experienced an 82% utilization percentage. • The Aquatic Centre This percentage accounts for every 15 minute increment in which the pool is experienced 82% utilization open, therefore assuming that high demand times are near, or at, full capacity. Any for each lane in 2015 (15 available time likely represents some 15 minute gaps between user group timeslots minute increments). and cancellation of user groups during special events. There is some capacity for lessons at the beginning and the end of the school year. In 2014, the total utilization • Prime Time ice utilization percentage of the aquatic centre was 80%. was 96% in the 2015 – 2016 ice season. • The gymnasium at the Recreation Centre was Arenas booked 63% of the time during the 2015 –2016 The following chart displays Prime Time ice utilization for the 2015 – 2016 ice season. school year. On weekdays Prime Time is defined as 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.; on weekends it is defined as 7:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. The data is based on hours • The Okotoks Curling Club booked between October 13, 2015 to March 11, 2016 and it excludes the holiday has 571 members and break (December 21 – January 1) due to reduced hours, program shut down time, 54 junior members. and facility closures. During the 2015 – 2016 ice season, the arenas experienced a • Town diamonds experienced 96% utilization rate. This is considered to be full capacity. Hockey accounts for 86% a Prime Time utilization of of booked Prime Time hours. 28% in 2015; school diamonds experienced 11%. Monday Saturday Monday Total Arenas to Friday and Sunday to Friday Prime • Town rectangular fields (4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.) (7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.) (6:30 a.m. – 7:30 a.m.) Time experienced a Prime Time Bookable Hours 2,100 1,920 270 4,290 utilization of 7% in 2015; school fields experienced 10%. Hours Booked 2,046 1,830 262 4,138 Utilization Percentage 97% 95% 97% 96%
36 Curling Rink Gymnasium Spaces The curling rink at the Okotoks Recreation Centre is operated The following utilization data for gymnasium spaces is from by the Okotoks Curling Club. The club has access to the facility September 1, 2015 to June 30, 2016. The Okotoks Recreation from September 15 to April 15 and typically the ice is in from Centre had utilization percentage of 63% during bookable September 20 to April 1. A number of leagues and bonspiel hours and school gymnasiums had 34% utilization of events are hosted each year and the facility is occasional bookable community hours. rented on weekends for corporate events. Okotoks Recreation Monday Saturday The following data is from the 2015 – 2016 ice season: to Friday and Sunday
Centre Gymnasium Total (4:00 p.m. – 11:00 p.m.) (7:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.) • The Okotoks Curling Club has 571 members and Bookable Hours 1,445 1,338 2,782 54 junior members Hours Booked 960 791 1,751 • Three bonspiels are hosted by the club each year (Ladies, Utilization Percentage 66% 59% 63% Mixed, Mens) and two external bonspiels are hosted as well • Leagues run from September to the holidays and then School Gymnasiums: Monday Saturday from the holidays to April to Friday and Sunday
Community Hours Total • Junior programs and coaching is offered by the club (Varies by School) (Varies by School) Bookable Hours 4,701 3,264 7,965 • The club currently offers ten leagues with a total of 137 teams: Hours Booked 2,243 441 2,684 »» Monday Morning Senior Ladies (7 teams) Utilization Percentage 48% 14% 34% »» Monday Evening Mixed/Open (10 teams) »» Tuesday Morning Senior Men (10 teams) »» Tuesday PM Men’s (24 teams) »» Wednesday Morning Senior Men Competitive (10 teams) »» Wednesday Evening Ladies (22 teams) »» Thursday AM Senior Mixed (6 teams) »» Thursday PM Men’s (12 teams) »» Thursday PM Open (12 teams) »» Friday Evening Mixed (24 teams)
Crescent Point Regional Field House The following chart outlines the percentage of available indoor field hours utilized at the Crescent Point Regional Field House (2016 data). Please note that “non-prime” hours include drop-in utilization.
Utilization January February March April May June July August September October November December Prime Hours Utilized (%) 79% 85% 74% 65% 28% 28% 21% 20% 25% 59% 65% 50% Non-Prime Hours Utilized (%) 21% 19% 21% 29% 19% 17% 32% 28% 13% 32% 34% 28%
37 Ball Diamonds Utilization of the ball diamonds is presented by using Prime Time data from April 20, 2015 to August 25, 2015. Town diamonds experienced consistent utilization between weekdays and weekends (29% and 27% respectively), totaling a Prime Time utilization of 28%. School diamonds were used at a rate of 11% during bookable hours. During the main 2015 ball season (April 20 to June 30), Town diamonds received 30% Prime Time utilization and school diamonds experienced 17%. Please note that the definition of Prime Time on weekdays is slightly different among Town and school diamonds.
Monday Saturday Total Town Diamonds to Friday and Sunday Prime (4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.) Time Bookable Hours 2,323 2,435 4,758 Hours Booked 666 652 1,317 Utilization Percentage 29% 27% 28%
Monday Saturday Total School Diamonds: to Friday and Sunday Prime Community Hours (5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.) Time Bookable Hours 3,722 4,536 8,258 Hours Booked 658 238 896 Utilization Percentage 18% 5% 11%
Rectangular Fields For rectangular fields, utilization data is presented from April 20, 2015 to August 25, 2015. Town fields had a Prime Time utilization percentage of 7% while school fields received 10% usage during community hours.
Monday Saturday Total Town Fields to Friday and Sunday Prime (4:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.) Time Bookable Hours 3,589 3,504 7,093 Hours Booked 390 115 504 Utilization Percentage 11% 3% 7%
Monday Saturday Total School Fields: to Friday and Sunday Prime Community Hours (5:30 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.) (8:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m.) Time Bookable Hours 4,094 5,026 9,120 Hours Booked 663 222 885 Utilization Percentage 16% 4% 10%
38 Eight
Service Delivery
Each municipality provides recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities differently. Some municipalities take a lead role in the delivery of programs while others lend a supporting hand to community driven initiatives. Realistically, most municipalities Key Findings provide these services in a combination of both methods. The following section shows an overview on how Okotoks delivers these services. • The Town offers direct programming to its residents. • The Town provides infrastructure for Direct Programming programs facilitated by Direct programming is when the Town provides program opportunities directly community groups. through its own staff and registration process. The Town of Okotoks provides direct • Financial assistance programs programming to residents, including instructional programs, drop-in programs, are offered by the Town to and camps. There are aquatic classes, lane swim, parent & tot programs, and public reduce cost as a barrier for swims at the Aquatic Centre and learn to skate program, drop-in programs, public low income residents. skatinge at the arenas. Direct programming at the Shane Home Gymnasium includes basketball, volleyball, badminton, and pickleball among others. Friday Teen Nights • The walking tracks at Pason at the youth centre would be considered direct programming as well. The Town also Centennial Arena and Crescent works to ensure that a mix of programming is available for residents of all ages. Point Field House are free to use This includes health, wellness and fitness programs for adults. and available for drop-in use during most operational hours. Types of direct programming offered by the town include: • Partnerships are important • Preschool programs • Personal development in the delivery of recreation and leisure services; the Town • Dance • Drama currently partners with the M.D. • Art • Day trips of Foothills for the operations of Crescent Point Regional • Play • Weekly camps Field House. • Sports • Leisure (general interest) • The Town also engages • Physical recreational programs • Computer skills in numerous community • Health and wellness • Culture partnerships to deliver programs and provide • Fitness programs access to recreation facilities (e.g. Active 8 initiative).
39 Public Access to Facilities Residents can access the Town’s facilities during drop-in and public times without having to register for a program. This allows for spontaneous recreation participation. The walking/running track at the Pason Centennial Arena is free of charge. Five pass options are currently available for the Recreation Centre which include admission to arena, pool, and gymnasium drop-in times, plus membership to the Natural High Fitness Centre, and access to over 30 weekly dry land and aquatic fitness classes. The current rates for the memberships and passes are presented below.
Pass Options Daily Rate 10X Pass 1 Month 3 Month Annual Adult (18 – 59 years) $8.00 $72.00 $60.79 $169.60 $578.77 Senior (60+ years) $6.00 $54.00 $49.49 $138.02 $471.09 Youth (12 – 17 years; post-secondary rate) $6.00 $54.00 $49.49 $138.02 $471.09 Child (6 – 11 years) $2.75 $24.75 $28.29 $78.43 $173.37 Preschool (3 – 5 years) $1.50 $13.50 $14.14 $39.33 $86.66 Tiny Tot (under 3 years) Free Free Free Free Free FamilyE 1 Adult $16.00 $144.00 $145.57 $406.27 $838.82 2 Adults $16.00 $144.00 $145.57 $406.27 $1157.54 3 Adults $24.00 $216.00 $206.36 $575.88 $1678.45
E “Family” is defined as 1, 2, or 3 adults and their dependent youth or children living in the same household.
The Town also offers a number of no or low cost opportunities to enjoy public recreation facilities. Free public skating and swim times are offered once a week through a community partnership with EPCOR and loonie and toonie swims are available 4 – 5 times per week. The Town also offers promotional facility passes as part of the following initiatives: • “99 days of summer” • “24 days of Christmas” • Schools out swim and gym • Prescription to Get Active • Corporate Discounts • Emergency Services Personnel Pass • Living Well Summer Pass
40 Infrastructure Fee Assistance Providing infrastructure is an example of indirect program delivery. The Town of Okotoks strives to offer recreation and leisure Okotoks builds and operates infrastructure, such as indoor facilities activities for all residents, even for those who may not be and outdoor amenities, which are used by community groups to able to afford it otherwise. The following services offer fee deliver programs. Non-profit community groups do pay a user or assistance programs for Okotoks’ residents to access and rental fee to access the space, but the rates are subsidized to help participate in recreation and leisure activities. keep participation costs low. Although the Town does not deliver minor sports leagues directly, providing space for the groups to operate is very important. Examples of indoor infrastructure that Alberta Human Services: the Town owns and operates are the Okotoks Recreation Centre Stay at Home Parents Support and the Pason Centennial Arena. Outdoor infrastructure examples include the skateboard park, ball diamonds, and rectangular fields. This program supports eligible families with one parent who stays at home to provide care or who works or attends school less than 20 hours per week. Subsidy is provided for preschool children aged under the age of six. Families may qualify for Partnerships up to $1,200 yearly, per child to participate in approved early childhood programs. The Town of Okotoks partners with other entities to enhance the delivery of recreation, parks, and leisure services. Okotoks has developed infrastructure by using partnerships. The Crescent KidSport Okotoks Point Regional Field House was built in partnership with the M.D. of Foothills and is jointly overseen by a committee with Town KidSport supports recreation for children 18 and under. and M.D. personnel. Some facilities including Seaman Stadium, Families may qualify for up to $600 yearly per child. the BMX track, the curling rink, and the tennis courts are located on Town land but are operated by a partnering community organization. The fitness centre at the Okotoks Recreation Centre Okotoks Family Resource Centre: is another partnership example; the space is owned by the Town Recreation Fee Assistance and is leased to Natural High Fitness. A partnership agreement with the school boards allows community use of the school fields, The Recreation Fee Assistance supports children between the diamonds, and gymnasiums during certain hours. ages of 6 and 18, adults and seniors. Residents may qualify for a maximum of $150 subsidy annually toward the purchase of Town of Okotoks facility passes and programs. This program is Parks, Pathways, funded by grants & donations. and Open Space Canadian Tire Jumpstart
Recreation and leisure are two of the many reasons why a Funding is available to support children ages of 4 to 18 years municipality would provide parks, pathways and open spaces. participating in sports and recreation. Only sustained activities They offer space for organized and spontaneous activities, are funded, including sports camps running for a minimum physical and passive activities, and they do not have user fees. of five consecutive days, or sports and recreational activities Providing these outdoor spaces allows all residents the opportunity running for a minimum of five weeks. to participate in recreation and leisure activities for little or no cost. The Town currently maintains 99 parks and 85 km of pathways.
41 Nine
Benchmarking
Six benchmarking communities were selected to compare inventories with Okotoks. This can be used to identify potential gaps in infrastructure and to learn about what other municipalities of similar size have. The facilities accounted for herein reflect Key Findings municipally operated spaces as well as ones that are supported by • The Town’s provision ratio for aquatic centres, the municipality. Please note that such benchmarking information ice sheets, and curling sheets are on par is not ideal for making direct comparisons as each community has with the benchmarking municipalities. different needs, population sizes vary, and it does not capture the quality of each space. • Three of the six municipalities have disc golf course while Okotoks does not. • Regarding provision ratios, Okotoks provide slightly less ball diamonds, rectangular fields, and tennis courts compared to the benchmarking municipalities. • Okotoks provides the following facilities at a better rate (considering provision ratios) than the benchmarked municipalities: fitness centres, gymnasium facilities, indoor turf fields, and indoor walking/running tracks.
42 Indoor Inventory
Number of Indoor Facilities In terms of inventory numbers, Okotoks does not have any big gaps in indoor infrastructure. The municipalities with more than one aquatics facility are at least double the population of Okotoks. Okotoks has more indoor turf fields than the benchmarking municipalities. Two of the six comparators have a youth centre. Although the Crescent Point Regional Field House is not located within Town boundaries, it is included in Okotoks’ inventory because the Town is a partner in the facility’s operations. A
Municipality Population recent(most census) Aquatics Facilities RinksCurling (Facilities) RinksCurling (Sheets) Centres Fitness Facilities Gymnasium Ice Arenas (Facilities) Ice Arenas (Sheets) Fields Indoor Turf Walking/ Tracks Running Centres Youth Airdrie 58,690 1 1 8 1 1 3 5 2 1 0 Camrose 18,038 1 1 9 0 1 2 3 0 2 0 Leduc 29,304 1 1 8 1 1 2 4 2 1 0 Red Deer 100,807 4 2 16 4 3 5 6 2 1 1 St. Albert 63,255 2 1 6 1 1 2 4 2 1 0 Strathcona County 95,597 2 3 16 3 1 6 9 2 2 2 Average 60,949 1.8 1.5 10.5 1.7 1.3 3.3 5.2 1.7 1.3 0.5 Okotoks 28,016 1 1 6 2 2 2 3 3 2 1
Indoor Provision Ratio Comparison Provision ratios are calculated to present the number of residents per facility that each municipality has. Compared to the average, Okotoks has a better provision ratio for each facility type. Okotoks has a much better provision ration for community gymnasiums and walk/running tracks in particular. Aquatic centres, ice sheets, and curling sheets are on par with the benchmarking municipalities. A
Municipality Population recent(most census) Aquatics Facilities RinksCurling (Facilities) RinksCurling (Sheets) Centres Fitness Facilities Gymnasium Ice Arenas (Facilities) Ice Arenas (Sheets) Fields Indoor Turf Walking/ Tracks Running Centres Youth Airdrie 58,690 58,690 58,690 7,336 58,690 58,690 19,563 11,738 29,345 58,690 — Camrose 18,038 18,038 18,038 2,004 — 18,038 9,019 6,013 — 9,019 — Leduc 29,304 29,304 29,304 3,663 29,304 29,304 14,652 7,326 14,652 29,304 — Red Deer 100,807 25,202 50,404 6,300 25,202 33,602 20,161 16,801 50,404 100,807 100,807 St. Albert 63,255 31,628 63,255 10,543 63,255 63,255 31,628 15,814 31,628 63,255 — Strathcona County 95,597 47,799 31,866 5,975 31,866 95,597 15,933 10,622 47,799 47,799 47,799 Average 60,949 35,110 41,926 5,970 41,663 49,748 18,493 11,386 34,765 51,479 74,303 Okotoks 28,016 28,016 28,016 4,669 14,008 14,008 14,008 9,339 9,339 14,008 28,016
A The benchmarking of indoor ice sheets did not take into account the additional ice sheet currently under construction at the Pason Centennial Centre. Only currently operating sheets were included for accuracy purposes as some other “comparable” communities are also at various stages of new arena development, enhancement or decommissioning.
43 Outdoor Inventory
Number of Outdoor Amenities Three of the six municipalities have disc golf course while Okotoks does not.
Municipality Population recent(most census) Ball Diamonds BMX Tracks GolfDisc Courses Off Leash DogParks Outdoor Fitness (Locations) Equipment Outdoor Rinks Rectangular Fields Skateboard Parks Courts Tennis Parks Spray Water Airdrie 58,690 23 1 0 5 2 11 38 1 8 1 Camrose 18,038 9 0 0 1 1 15 24 1 7 1 Leduc 29,304 14 0 1 2 1 10 26 1 3 1 Red Deer 100,807 84 1 2 2 10 75 84 2 52 4 St. Albert 63,255 33 1 0 2 1 28 35 1 24 1 Strathcona County 95,597 102 1 1 1 0 22 108 1 19 6 Average 60,949 44.2 0.7 0.7 2.2 2.5 26.8 52.5 1.2 18.8 2.3 Okotoks 28,016 15 1 0 1 2 9 18 1 5 1
Outdoor Provision Ratio Comparison In regard to provision ratios, Okotoks provide slightly less ball diamonds, rectangular fields, and tennis courts compared to the benchmarking municipalities.
Population Municipality recent(most census) Ball Diamonds BMX Tracks GolfDisc Courses Off Leash DogParks Outdoor Fitness (Locations) Equipment Outdoor Rinks Rectangular Fields Skateboard Parks Courts Tennis Parks Spray Water Airdrie 58,690 2,552 58,690 — 11,738 29,345 5,335 1,544 58,690 7,336 58,690 Camrose 18,038 2,004 — — 18,038 18,038 1,203 752 18,038 2,577 18,038 Leduc 29,304 2,093 — 29,304 14,652 29,304 2,930 1,127 29,304 9,768 29,304 Red Deer 100,807 1,200 100,807 50,404 50,404 10,081 1,344 1,200 50,404 1,939 25,202 St. Albert 63,255 1,917 63,255 — 31,628 63,255 2,259 1,807 63,255 2,636 63,255 Strathcona County 95,597 937 95,597 95,597 95,597 — 4,345 885 95,597 5,031 15,933 Average 60,949 1,784 79,587 58,435 37,009 30,005 2,903 1,219 52,548 4,881 35,070 Okotoks 28,016 1,868 28,016 — 28,016 14,008 3,113 1,556 28,016 5,603 28,016
44 Ten
Consultation
Consultation Overview Key Findings Three mechanisms were conducted to gather input from local residents and • Admission fees into facilities community groups. A mail-out household survey generated input from 1,172 was the largest participation households in the Okotoks area plus another 37 responses online. The community barrier resulting from the group survey gathered perspectives from 11 organizations that provide recreation Household Survey (38%). opportunities to local residents. Twenty-eight (28) key stakeholders were • Physical health/exercise was the interviewed to learn about the recreational needs of the community. top motivation for recreation, Responses/ Fielding parks, and leisure participation Mechanism Description in the Household Survey (91%). Participants Date • Ninety-four percent (94%) of A statistically representative Household Survey respondents survey of Town residents. Unique access codes for an believe that the municipalities in Household Survey June – online survey were mailed to 1,194 Responses the area should work together (Mail-out) July 2016 to provide recreation, parks, households in the Town of and leisure opportunities Okotks and surrounding for residents. M.D. of Foothills households. • The most desired indoor space Online survey (with hard copy available upon request) for is leisure pools (56%) while the Community June – community groups such as sport 19 Responses top outdoor space is walking/ Group Survey July 2016 cycling pathways (45%). organizations, schools, and service clubs. • In the Community Group Survey, 28% of groups indicated that In-person interviews with key current facilities and spaces Stakeholder stakeholders in the community. 43 June in the town completely meet Interviews Supplementary telephone Participants 2016 the needs of their group; 55% interviews were also conducted. selected “somewhat” and 17% indicated that the spaces do not meet their group’s needs. • There is a need for more facilities and spaces as the population grows; this was a recurring comment from the Stakeholder Interviews.
45 Household Survey The household survey was conducted to gather the public’s thoughts and preferences regarding recreation, parks, and leisure. A letter was sent to each household with a unique access code and instructions directing residents to an online questionnaire on the Town’s website. Hard copies were also available upon request. The unique access code was used to ensure only one response from each household was received; responses are anonymous. The survey was promoted via the Town’s social media platforms and website, signage in the Recreation Centre, and through attendance at public events. In total 9,578 questionnaires were mailed to 9,578 households and 1,194 were submitted. This level of response provides a margin of error of ±2.7% 19 times out of 20.1 As a token of thanks, the Town randomly selected a draw prize winner for completing the survey. The optional draw entry was for a $100 grocery gift certificate.
The findings from the survey are presented in the order the questions were asked. The findings represent the overall responses of those answering the questions2. In some instances subsequent findings from seniors (60+) and those with children and youth in the household (0 – 19 years) are presented3.
Household Participation Household Participation Over half of households participate in walking/jogging (80%), BBQ/ Walking/jogging 80% picnic/social gatherings (57%), and BBQ/picnics/social gatherings 57% attend community events (51%). 50% Community events (e.g. Canada Day) 51% Swimming/diving participate in swimming another 50% 50% Gardening 50% gardens. Fitness (e.g. cardio, weights) 46% Cycling/mountain biking 45% Hiking 45% Camping 44% Dog walking/dog agility 43% Golf 40% Wildlife watching/nature appreciation 38% Yoga 25% Tobogganing 25% Field sports (e.g. soccer, football) 24% Boating (kayak, canoe, paddleboards) 24% Downhill skiing/snowboarding 23% Indoor gymnasium sports 20% Hockey (structured/league) 18% Group exercise (boot camp, aerobics) 17% Softball/baseball/slo pitch 16% Boating (motorized) 15% Ice skating program 14% Skateboarding/BMX/scootering 14% Dance 13% Cross country skiing/snowshoeing 11% Agricultural (e.g. equestrian riding) 10% Gymnastics 10% Curling 9% Rollerblading/inline skating 9% Pickleball 8% Tennis 8% Snowmobile/ATV riding 8% Mountain/rock climbing 6% Track and eld 6% Lawnbowling 1% 0% 10%20% 30%40% 50%60% 70%80% 90%
1 If the survey were to be conducted with the same level of response, the results would be with ±2.7% 19 times out of 20. This is considered statistically reliable and is representative of Okotok’s households. 2 Not all respondents answered all questions. 3 There were 349 responses from seniors and 540 responses from households with members between 0 – 19 years of age.
46 Reasons for Participating Reasons for Participating The top reason for participating in recreation, parks, and leisure activities is for physical health/exercise (91%). Fun/ Physical health/exercise 91% entertainment (82%), relaxation/unwind Fun/entertainment 82% (66%), and to be with friends and family (54%) were also reasons why over half of Relaxation/unwind 66% households participate in such activities. To be with family/friends 54%
Improve skills and/or knowledge 29%
Meet new people 26%
Experience a challenge 16%
Competition 16%
Help the community 10%
Satisfy curiosity 5%
0% 10%20% 30%40% 50%60% 70%80% 90%100%
Barriers to Participation Barriers to Participation The top barrier to participation is admission fees into facilities (38%). Thirty-five percent (35%) of households Admission fees into facilities 38% believe that both fees to join a program and hours of operation are barriers. Fees to join a program 35% Unaware of some opportunities (32%) and overcrowded facilities (30%) Hours of operation round off the top five barriers. 35%
Seniors (60+ years): health issues (32%); Unaware of some opportunities 32% don’t have physical ability/fitness level (29%); and admission fees (29%) were Overcrowded facilities the main barriers to participation. 30%
Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): Equipment costs 15% admission fees (49%) and program fees (45%) are the greatest barriers. Health issues 14%
Poor/inadequate facilities 14%
Don’t have the physical ability/tness level 14%
Better opportunities elsewhere 13%
Not interested in what is available 12%
Travel time 6%
Transportation limitations 4%
0% 5% 10%15% 20%25% 30%35% 40%45%
47 Level of Agreement Ninety-five percent (95%) of households either strongly agree (70%) or somewhat agree (25%) that recreation, parks, and leisure are important to their quality of life. Please refer to the accompanying chart for results of all six level of agreement statements.
Strongly Somewhat Somewhat Strongly Statement Unsure Agree Agree Disagree Disagree Recreation, parks, and leisure are important to my quality 70% 25% 2% 1% 1% of life. My local community as a whole benefits from recreation, 74% 20% 4% 1% 1% parks, and leisure programs and services. Residents can benefit even if they do not use recreation, 44% 37% 13% 4% 4% parks, and leisure services directly. Recreation, parks, and leisure services brings the 59% 33% 5% 2% 1% community together. Quality recreation, parks, and leisure programs and 68% 25% 4% 2% 1% facilities can help attract and retain residents. The municipalities in the area should work together to provide 71% 23% 4% 1% 1% recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities for residents.
Facility and Park Utilization Crescent Point Regional Field House Crescent Point Regional Field House 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use 100% Forty-one percent (41%) of households have used the indoor fields at Crescent 90% Point Regional Field House in the past 86% year. 10% of respondents have used the 80% 81% walking/running track 21 or more times. 70% 61% 60% 59%
50%
40%
30% 22% 20% 21% 10% 12% 10% 9%9% 8% 8% 4%4% 4% 3% 0% Indoor FieldsWalking/Running TrackGymnasium Training Areas
48 Okotoks Recreation Centre Okotoks Recreation Centre Nearly two-thirds (65%) of households have used/visited the aquatic centre at 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use 100% the Okotoks Recreation Centre in the past 12 months. 40% have used the arenas 90% 91% and 31% have used the fitness areas.
80%
70% 69% 70%
60% 60%
50%
40% 35% 30% 28% 22% 21% 20% 18% 16% 14% 13% 11% 10% 6% 6% 7%5% 6% 1%2% 0% Aquatic Centre Ice Arenas Fitness AreasGymnasium Youth Centre
Pason Centennial Arena Pason Centennial Arena The walking track at the Pason Centennial 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use Arena has been used/visited by 36% of 100% respondents in the past year while the arena has been used/visited by 28%. 90%
80% 72% 70% 64% 60%
50%
40%
30%
20% 20% 14% 10% 9% 8% 9% 5% 0% Walking/Running TrackIce Arena
49 Scott Seamans Arena Scott Seamans Arena The Scott Seamans Arena in the M.D. of Foothills, has been used and/or visited 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use 100% by 17% of Okotoks households in the past 12 months. 90% 83% 80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10% 9% 5% 3% 0% Ice Arena
Okotoks Curling Club Okotoks Curling Club Eleven percent (11%) of responding 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use households used the Okotoks Curling 100% Club at least once in the past year. 90% 89%
80%
70%
60%
50%
40%
30%
20%
10% 5% 5% 2% 0% Curling Rink
50 Outdoor Facilities Outdoor Facilities (Part 1) The top 3 utilized outdoor facilities are 21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use paved pathways (96%), parks/open 100% spaces (91%), and playgrounds (62%).1 Please refer to the graphs for utilization 90% data on a variety of outdoor spaces. 80% 70% 71% 60% 56% 50% 51% 40% 38% 41% 33% 30% 26% 28% 22% 20% 19% 19% 15% 14%16% 14% 10% 10% 9% 11% 4% 6% 0% Paved Pathways Parks/Open Spaces Playgrounds Unpaved Trails Water Spray Park
Outdoor Facilities (Part 2)
21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use 100% 90% 80% 71% 71% 72% 74% 70% 62% 60% 59% 50% 40% 30% 25% 23% 22% 20% 16%16% 11% 11% 14% 10% 6% 6% 7%12% 7% 2%4% 2%4% 5% 0% Toboggan Hills O Leash Playing Fields Outdoor Fitness Outdoor Rinks Ball Diamonds Dog Park (rectangular) Equipment
Outdoor Facilities (Part 3)
21+ Uses 10 - 20 Uses 1 - 9 Uses Did Not Use 100% 92% 90% 91% 82% 84% 86% 86% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 12% 11%11% 10% 1 Percentages within the brackets indicate the 4%3% 3% 2% 3% 2%5% 2%1%5% percentage of households that have used the 0% 1% facility at least once in the past year. Community Gardens Skateboard Park Track and Field Grounds BMX TrackTennis Courts Pickleball Courts
51 Level of Satisfaction Satisfaction with Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Just over three-quarters (78%) of Opportunities and Services households are satisfied with indoor opportunities and services (33% very Indoor (facilities, programs, and opportunities) Outdoor (parks, trails, open spaces, programs, and opportunities) satisfied; 45% somewhat satisfied). 50% In regard to outdoor spaces, 89% of households are satisfied (44% very 45% 44% 45% 45% satisfied; 45% somewhat satisfied). 40%
35% 33% 30%
25%
20%
15% 12% 10% 8% 5% 5% 5% 3% 2% 0% Very Satis ed Somewhat Satis ed Unsure Somewhat Dissatis ed Very Dissatis ed
New and/or Enhanced Spaces Do you think that there is a need for new and/or Seventy percent (70%) of responses enhanced recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or stated there is a need for new and/or spaces (indoor and/or outdoor) to be developed enhanced spaces for recreation, parks, in Okotoks now and in the future? and leisure. 21% were unsure and 9% indicated “no.” Seniors (60+ years): 56% believe that 9% new/enhanced spaces are needed. No Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): 84% believe there is a need for new/ 21% enhanced spaces. Unsure
70% Yes
52 Of the 91% of respondents who Indoor Infrastructure Priorities answered “yes” or “unsure,” 56% would like to have leisure swimming pools, 32% would like access to climbing gyms, Leisure swimming pools 56% and 30% indicated 25m swim tanks. Climbing gyms 32% 25m swimming tanks Seniors (60+ years): priorities include 30% seniors centres (51%); walking/running Walking/running tracks 29% tracks (42%); and fitness/wellness Indoor child playgrounds 25% facilities (29%). Court sport spaces 24% Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): Ice arena facilities 24% priorities include leisure swimming Seniors centres 22% pools (75%); climbing gyms (46%); and Leisure ice surfaces (non-hockey) 21% indoor child playgrounds (37%). Fitness/wellness facilities 20% Dance/program/martial arts rooms 13% Gymnasium type spaces 12% Community hall/banquet facilities 11% Youth centres 10% Indoor eld facilities 10% Gymnastics spaces/parkour rooms 8% Classroom/meeting spaces 5% Curling rinks 4% 0% 10%20% 30%40% 50%60%
In regard to outdoor spaces, of the Outdoor Infrastructure Priorities 91% who answered “yes” or “unsure,” a walking/cycling pathway system (45%), outdoor pools (33%), and day use areas Walking/cycling pathway system 45% (33%) were the top three responses. Outdoor pools 33% Day use areas (with BBQs) 33% Seniors (60+ years): priorities include a Nature/interpretive trails 30% walking/cycling pathways system (62%); Mountain bike trails 26% nature/interpretive trails (38%); Dog o leash areas 26% and open spaces (35%) Open spaces (e.g. parks, greenspace) 24% Water spray parks Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): 19% Event spaces (e.g. amphitheatres) priorities include outdoor pools (44%); 18% Campgrounds day use areas (38%) ; and mountain 17% bike trails (32%). Toboggan hills 16% Community gardens 16% Playgrounds 12% Beach volleyball courts 12% Outdoor boarded skating rinks 10% Tennis courts 10% Bike skills park 9% Ball diamonds 9% Hard courts (e.g. basketball) 7% Pickleball courts 7% Outdoor tness equipment 6% Sports elds (e.g. soccer, football) 6% Skateboard parks 4% Speed skating ovals 2% Track and eld spaces 2% 0% 5% 10%15% 20%25% 30%35% 40%45% 50%
53 Programming The top programming need for children (0-5 years) was wellness (35%), followed by nature interaction (30%). Sports (65%) and outdoor skills (63%) is an indicated need for youth (6-12 years); they were also the top two areas of focus for teens (13 – 18 years). 60% of respondents would like to see more fitness and wellness programs for adults aged 19 – 39. Adults between the ages of 40 and 64 also think there is a need for more wellness (63%), fitness (61%), and recreation/leisure (60%) programs. For seniors (65+ years), wellness (60%) and nature interaction (55%) were the top two programming needs.
Children Youth Teens Adults Adults Seniors Program Type (0 –5 years) (6 – 12 years) (13 – 18 years) (19 – 39 years) (40 – 64 years) (65+ years) Nature Interaction (e.g. birdwatching, educational) 30% 52% 31% 29% 52% 55% Fitness (e.g. yoga, weightlifting) 10% 25% 46% 60% 61% 45% Outdoor Skills (e.g. camping, fishing) 25% 63% 70% 54% 44% 29% Recreation/Leisure (e.g. bicycling, floor curling) 20% 51% 56% 55% 60% 46% Sports (e.g. volleyball, soccer) 28% 65% 69% 58% 36% 18% Wellness (e.g. healthy eating) 35% 52% 61% 60% 63% 60%
When asked about programming Programming Improvements improvements, 49% would like to see a more convenient schedule/longer hours while 47% would like the cost of programs decreased. More convenient schedule/longer hours 49%
Less cost 47%
O ered more frequently 37%
Greater variety 35%
Di erent skill levels available 33%
Improved marketing of programs 29%
Need to accommodate more participants 27%
Enhanced content/better quality 18%
Better instruction 12%
0% 10%20% 30%40% 50%60%
54 Financial Assistance Are you aware of any programs in Okotoks that provide The majority of respondents (56%) financial assistance to individuals and families so they can are not aware of financial assistance access recreation, parks, and leisure programs and services? programs for recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities in Okotoks. Another 20% were unsure, resulting in approximately one-quarter (24%) of respondents being aware of such assistance. 24% Seniors (60+ years): 66% are unaware of Yes financial assistance programs while 14% are aware.
Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): 56% 49% are unaware of financial assistance No 20% programs while 31% are aware. Unsure
Preferred Communication Methods Preferred Communication Methods To promote recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities, 61% selected the Western Wheel newspaper as the top methods. Western Wheel (newspaper) 61% Town website/online schedules (49%), community guide (37%), and social media (31%) were identified as the next Town website/online schedules 49% best methods. Seniors (60+ years): 73% prefer the Community Guide (publication in Western Wheel) 37% Western Wheel. Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): Social media 31% preferred communication methods are the Town website/online schedules (53%) and the Western Wheel (52%). Utility bill inserts 27%
E-newsletters 22%
Community signs 22%
Eagle 100.9 (radio) 13%
Brochures and posters in community facilities 9%
Community Guide (publication for pick-up) 8%
Public open house 2%
0% 20%40% 60%80%
55 Transportation Typical Mode(s) of Transportation for Respondents were able to select Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Participation their top two typical methods of transportation for recreation, parks, and leisure participation. 91% of respondents Drive drive while 60% walk. 91%
Walk 60%
Bicycle 15%
Taxi 1%
0% 20%40% 60%80% 100%
Project Prioritization Criteria A recreation, parks, and leisure facility Over half (52%) selected community project should be a higher priority if… demand as being the top criteria for project prioritization. The amenity not being readily available in the area (33%) it responds to demands/requests from the community. 52% and providing greater benefit to the community (29%) were the next top the amenity is not readily available in the area. 33% criteria. it provides greater benet to the community. 29%
it can be used for multiple activities by dierent users. 28%
it can be a year-round facility (or have an extended season). 24%
funding and grants are available that would lower the costs. 24%
it can be operated in an economically and environmentally sustainable manner. 20% it is used by large numbers of users. 18% the cost to operate the amenity is lower. 13% it means recreation amenities are available throughout the area. 11% it targets under-served segments of our community. 10% it has potential for bringing non-local spending into the community. 10% the overall capital cost to build is lower. 6% it complements existing opportunities and businesses in the area. 5% it ts with the existing plans of the local government. 4%
0% 20%40% 60%
56 Tax Support and User Fees Which of the following options do you support in When asked to share their opinion relation to tax support and user fees for the Town’s regarding tax support and user fees, recreation, parks, and leisure programs and facilities? 70% and 66% of households indicated to maintain the current level of tax Tax Support User Fees support and user fees respectively. 80% For tax support, 14% are in support of 70% an increase; 16% are in support of a decrease. 70% 66% Similarly, for user fees, 15% indicated 60% increase while 19% chose decrease. 50% Seniors (60+ years): 67% want to maintain levels; 23% support a decrease; 40% and 10% support an increase. 30% Children and Youth (0 – 19 years): 20% 19% 70% want to maintain levels; 10% support 14% 15% 16% a decrease; and 19% support an increase. 10%
0% Increase Current LevelMaintain Current LevelDecrease Current Level
Households are 20% more likely to agree (6% strongly agree; 14% somewhat agree) to an increase of taxes if the extra level of service caters to activities in which they would participate in. However it is important to note that 45% are not favorable to a property tax increase for recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or programs that their household would use. An even higher proportion (63%) are not favorable to a property tax increase for facilities or program their household would not use.
Strongly Somewhat Somewhat Strongly Statement Unsure Agree Agree Disagree Disagree I would support an increase in property taxes for recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and programs that 10% 31% 14% 19% 26% my household uses or participates in. I would support an increase in property taxes for recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and programs that 4% 17% 16% 24% 39% my household may not use or participate in.
Sport Affiliations Is anyone in your household currently playing Just over one-third (35%) of respondents or affiliated with a sports organization? are currently playing or affiliated with a sports organization. The most mentioned sports organizations included Okotoks Minor Hockey Association, Foothills Stingray Swim Club, and Okotoks Minor Soccer Association. 63% 35% No Yes
2% Unsure
57 General Comments Respondent Profile
Over 400 general comments were provided by respondents. Responses were Where is your primary % categorized by theme and are summarized below. residence? Okotoks 100% New Facilities and Spaces Do you own or rent your • New recreation facilities are needed to serve our growing community % primary residence? • Ensure balanced between organized sports and unorganized recreational activities Own 96% Rent 4% • Current facilities are used to full capacity and have little ability to service special needs Please describe your • Geographic balance of facilities should be a consideration as the Town grows household by recording • Community or neighbourhood level facilities may be warranted with growth the number of members in % each of the following age • Support amenities such as wifi should be available in facilities groups. Parks and Outdoor Spaces Age 0 – 4 Years 7% Age 5 – 9 Years 9% • A variety of new and additional spaces were suggested such as outdoor ice rinks, tennis courts, toboggan hills, disc golf, dog parks, and more Age 10 – 19 Years 15% Age 20 – 29 Years 7% • Plan passive recreation and leisure spaces in natural areas Age 30 – 39 Years 14% • Install lights for fields and outdoor spaces Age 40 – 49 Years 16% • Upkeep of trails and pathways should be a priority Age 50 – 59 Years 14% • Widening or additional pedestrian bridges across the river Age 60 – 69 Years 11% • Create outdoor community gathering spaces Age 70 – 79 Years 5% Age 80+ Years 1% Programming • Provide a variety of programs for all residents • Leave programming for associations and private operators • As the population grows, expectations for opportunities grow as well • More opportunities on weekends • Improve advertising of programs
Tax Support and User Fees • Various opinions about tax support versus users fees • Concerns about tax increases were expressed • Show the benefits of investing in recreation and parks
58 Community Group Survey An online group survey was emailed to community groups in Okotoks to collect information about the organizations that deliver recreation opportunities to area residents and to learn about their needs and issues. A hardcopy version of the survey was also available. Nineteen (19) groups responded to survey; the results capture their perspectives and are not statistically representative of all groups in Okotoks.
Community Group Information Age of Participants Of the groups that submitted a response to the survey, 84% of them have teen participants and 79% cater to youth. Preschool (Ages 0 - 5) 21%
Youth (6 - 12) 79%
Teen (13 - 18) 84%
Adult (18 - 59) 58%
Senior (60+) 47%
0% 10%20% 30%40% 50%60% 70%80% 90%
Approximately two-thirds (63%) of Expectations for Participant Numbers groups expect their participant numbers to grow over the next couple of years and 37% expect to remain stable. None of the groups expect to decline. 37% Remain Stable
0% Decline
63% Grow
59 On average, two-thirds (67%) of group Residency of Participants participants reside in Okotoks and 17% live in the M.D. of Foothills. 80% 67% 60%
40%
20% 17% 7% 9% 0% OkotoksM.D. of Foothills CalgaryOther
Facilities and Spaces To what degree do the current recreation parks, When asked to what degree do the and leisure facilities and spaces in the Okotoks area current recreation, parks, and leisure meet the needs of your organization? facilities and spaces in the Okotoks area meet the needs of your organization, just over half (55%) of groups said that they somewhat meet the needs of the group. Twenty-eight percent 17% (28%) of groups responded that the Do Not Adequately spaces completely meet the needs of Meet the Needs their group and 17% indicated that the 55% of Our Organization spaces do not meet their needs. As a Somewhat Meet follow up question, respondents were the Needs of asked to identify any enhancements Our Organization 28% or improvements that would improve Completely Meet their group’s enjoyment of the existing the Needs of facilities and spaces used. Additional Our Organization spaces (ice arenas; fields; diamonds; swimming pools), accessibility of current indoor and outdoor spaces, increased maintenance of outdoor spaces, lighting (fields; tennis courts), and enhanced Do you think that there is a need for new and/or amenity spaces at the curling rink were suggestions brought forth to help meet enhanced recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or the groups’ needs. spaces (indoor and/or outdoor) to be developed in Okotoks now and in the future? Groups were asked if they think that there is a need for new and/or upgraded recreation, parks, and leisure facilities (including indoor and outdoor spaces) to be developed in the Town of Okotoks. 11% Unsure 0% 89% No Yes
60 Indoor Priorities Indoor Priorities Respondents were then asked to select up to five indoor recreation and leisure Ice arena facilities 38% facilities or spaces that should be Community hall/banquet facilities 31% more readily available or enhanced in Okotoks to satisfy their organization’s Court sport spaces (e.g. squash, tennis) 25% recreational needs. Ice arena facilities 25m swimming tanks 19% (38%), community hall/banquet facilities Indoor eld facilities 13% (31%), and court spaces (25%) were the top three spaces selected. Indoor child playgrounds 13% Gymnasium type spaces 13% Fitness/wellness facilities 13% Climbing gyms 13% Classroom/meeting spaces 13% Youth centres 6% Walking/running tracks 6% Seniors centres 6% Leisure swimming pools 6% Leisure ice surfaces (non-hockey) 6% Dance/program/martial arts rooms 6% Curling rinks 6% 0% 5% 10%15% 20%25% 30%35% 40%
Outdoor Priorities Outdoor Priorities Next, the same question was asked but for outdoor spaces. Sports fields Sports elds (e.g. soccer, football) 27% (27%) was the most common response followed by pickleball courts, outdoor Pickleball courts 20% fitness equipment, and outdoor Outdoor tness equipment 20% boarded skating rinks which were selected by 20% of the groups. Outdoor boarded skating rinks 20% Water spray parks 13% Toboggan hills 13% Tennis courts 13% Playgrounds 13% Nature/interpretive trails 13% Campgrounds 13% Ball diamonds 13% Walking/cycling pathway system 7% Skateboard parks 7% Open spaces (e.g. parks, greenspace) 7% Event spaces 7% Day use areas (with BBQs) 7% Beach volleyball courts 7% 0% 5% 10%15% 20%25% 30%
61 User/Rental Fees Which of the following options do you support in relation Town of Okotoks recreation facilities and to user/rental fees for the Town’s recreation, parks, parks are paid for by a combination of and leisure facilities (indoor and outdoor)? tax support (including property taxes) and fees paid by users (including rental fees, admissions, etc). Groups were 11% asked to indicated whether they support Decrease the current level of user/ an increase, decease, or maintain the rental fees, understanding that there level of user/rental fees for the Town’s could be a decrease in service quality, recreation, parks, and leisure facilities program, and building enhancements. (indoor and outdoor).
22% Increase the current level of user/rental fees to better deliver services, programs, and infrastructure.
67% Maintain the current level ofuser/rental fees.
Partnerships Does your organization partner with community Respondents were asked if their organizations and/or local municipalities (Town of organization partners with other neighbouring municipalities) to provided recreation, community organizations and/or local parks, and leisure services in the Okotoks area? municipalities (Town or neighbouring municipalities) to provide recreation, parks, and leisure services in the Okotoks area. Forty-five percent (45%) of them do, 44% do not, and 11% are unsure. Examples of partnerships 44% include fundraising support, sharing No space, and partnering to provide programs. Groups were also asked to provide any ideas to enhance partnerships and collaboration. Ideas 45% included collaborating to ensure 11% Yes that spaces meet the needs of a Unsure variety of groups, ensuring facilities and park spaces are accessible to all, and partnering to improve facilities so that they are capable of hosting tournaments/events.
62 Challenges Accessing space in facilities and accommodating growing Stakeholder Interviews participant numbers are the main challenges the organizations Stakeholder interviews were conducted to gather input are dealing with as they delivers their programs. Other challenges directly from Town residents, including volunteers who commonly expressed revolved around the maintenance of dedicate their time to community groups. These discussions fields and diamonds, the cost to operate facilities and programs, help the consulting team further understand the current and inadequacies in current facilities. Considering the program situation and future needs for recreation, parks, and leisure challenges described above, groups were asked what the single in the area. Forty-three (43) in-person sessions were held most important action or resource is that the Town of Okotoks to represent a wide array of community organizations and could provide to help their organization meet their programming interests, which included sport associations, facility and goals. The most common response was to build infrastructure; park users, recreation clubs, schools, health organizations, other suggestions were to improve maintenance standards, and community advocacy groups. A list of participating increase accessibility at parks and facilities, and to lower user fees. organizations can be found in the appendices. Although a wide range of topics were discussed, the common themes are General Comments summarized below. The groups were provided an opportunity to write general comments. Many of the comments reiterated their group’s Key Themes and Findings facility needs while other comments expressed appreciation to The conversations facilitated revealed a number of conclusions the Town. A couple of the groups took the opportunity to share which included: the benefits of their specific activity and how it contributes to health and wellness. One comment stressed the importance of • Overall, high levels of satisfaction with recreation and parks the Town having a good relationship with the school boards to • Strong sense of community pride maximize the use of school spaces including fields. • Town administration and staff are respected and viewed positively • Indoor facilities have not kept up with growth • Trail system is great; some signage improvements needed • Strong demand for continued trail development • New indoor ice sheet is generally supported • New pool was frequently brought up; however, various views on needed facilities and spaces
High Levels of Satisfaction and Community Pride Nearly all of the participants are proud to live and recreate in Okotoks. When asked about why Okotoks is a great place to live, its location (near a big city) and its friendly ‘small town feel’ were commonly suggested. Trails and green spaces were often pointed to when asked about the Town’s parks and recreation strengths. Community events and spectator sports were mentioned as positive ways the Town currently fosters community pride. Although most groups were advocating for their own interests, in general, satisfaction is high for recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities.
63 Town Administration and Staff are Respected Participants were asked about their relationship with the Town and how it could be improved. Interactions with bookings staff and administrators are positive. In most cases, the group representatives knew the Town staff by name and were quick to commend their efforts and understanding of each community group. Open communication, approachability, and being a liaison with other groups were reasons for the positive relationships.
High Demand for New Indoor Facilities According to the interview participants, there is a high demand for new indoor facilities. Established ice sports groups, such as minor hockey and camps are advocating for additional sheets of ice to keep up with the growth of their programs. Emerging groups such as ringette and speed skating are looking to establish new programs which will also increase the demand for ice time. The curling club would like to engage the Town about potential enhancements to the curling rink, including modernization and upgraded amenity spaces. Gymnasium spaces were brought forth as a needed indoor space. Basketball programs are looking for more gym time as school gymnasiums are not always accessible. Swimming programs would like additional and enhanced aquatic spaces. It was noted that the current pool does not meet the capacity of all the growing programs nor the amenities to host events. The recently constructed Crescent Point Regional Field House is viewed as a valuable asset to the area.
Continued Trail and Pathway Development The current trail and pathway network is a point of pride for Okotoks’ residents. Trails were mentioned as a ‘strength’ of the community as they are well used, do not require user fees, connect neighbourhoods, and can accommodate a variety of uses. Paved pathways are used for active transportation and it was felt that, for this reason, it is important to continue connecting areas of the Town, especially in new developments. Specialized trails, such as mountain bike trails, are being introduced to the community. The local mountain bike group is working with the Town to create and maintain new trails; walkers and runners are welcome to use these trails as well. Improved trail signage was suggested to help educate users on etiquette and safety. Directional signage was suggested as well.
64 Eleven
Summary
Community Context • The Municipal Development Plan shares a vision that all community facilities in Okotoks are architecturally • The median age of residents in Okotoks is younger than significant landmarks that provide focus for community provincial and national averages (72% of the population is life, and lend to Okotoks’ distinction as being “unique”. under 40 years of age). There are also slightly more people • The Town of Okotoks Social Wellness Framework (2010) per household compared to the provincial average, recommends to develop strategies to reduce the costs of suggesting a higher proportion of families. recreation, sport, and culture related programs. • The Town of Okotoks Growth Study and Financial • Provincial and national initiatives such as Active Alberta Assessment (2014) projects a 2073 population of 82,152. and A Framework for Recreation in Canada set a strong • The current trade area of Okotoks is estimated at 85,000 foundation for municipal planning. people (includes Okotoks, High River, Black Diamond, • A number of other municipalities in the region have Turner Valley, Vulcan, Nanton, and rural areas). conducted recent planning in recreation, parks, and • South Calgary has experienced rapid growth in recent years leisure areas. Managing growth with finite resources is a both in terms of residents and services. Growth of South challenge experienced by most of these communities. Calgary and other regional municipalities will continue to increase Okotoks trading and service area. • As the community grows, it is expected that the The Benefits of Recreation population will continue to diversify in terms of ethnicity, • Recreation, parks, and leisure are essential to personal social economics, and other characteristics. health and wellbeing. • Recreation, parks, and leisure build strong families and Background Review healthy communities. • Green spaces are essential to environmental and • Recreation, parks, and leisure is embedded in the Town’s ecological wellbeing. municipal planning documents. • The Okotoks Community Vision 2014 and Community Sustainability Plan (2016 – 2019) are key guiding Trends and Leading Practices documents in the delivery of recreation and other • Unstructured spontaneous activities are increasing “quality of life” services. Both of these documents portray in popularity. recreation, parks, and leisure services and facilities as key to meeting strategic goals. Other important existing Town • Partnerships optimize opportunities in the delivery of planning documents include the Municipal Development recreation, parks, and leisure services. Plan, Social Wellness Framework, and Town business plans. • Multi-use pathway systems are often seen as being a • Okotoks’ Business Plan (2014 – 2017) states that the Town given with park design as they facilitate a wide range of will provide recreation and cultural facilities to meet recreational uses and serve a transportation function. current and future growth needs. • Overall societal physical activity levels remain concerning.
65 • The concept of social inclusion has increasingly become • The walking tracks at Pason Centennial Arena and Crescent an issue that many communities are addressing through Point Field House are free to use and available for drop-in recreation, parks, and leisure services. use during most operational hours. • The nature of volunteerism is changing; volunteers are • Partnerships are important in the delivery of recreation looking for more defined roles and motivated by different and leisure services; the Town currently partners with outcomes than in generations past. the M.D. of Foothills for the operations of Crescent Point Regional Field House. Inventory • The Town also engages in numerous community partnerships to deliver programs and provide access to recreation facilities • The Okotoks Recreation Centre contains two ice arena (e.g. Active 8 initiative). facilities (three sheets with an additional sheeting currently under construction), a six-sheet curling rink, an aquatic centre, a fitness centre, a gymnasium, a youth centre, Benchmarking and various multi-purpose and meeting spaces. • The Town’s provision ratio for aquatic centres, ice sheets, • The Crescent Point Regional Field House is a jointly owned and curling sheets are on par with the benchmarking with the MD of Foothills and is currently operated by Nustadia. municipalities. The facility includes indoor field and multi-purpose hardcourt • Three of the six municipalities have disc golf course while spaces, a walking/running track, program rooms, and a Okotoks does not . fitness centre. • Regarding provision ratios, Okotoks provide slightly less ball • Okotoks has 85 km of pathways, 2km of nature/interpretive diamonds, rectangular fields, and tennis courts compared trails (of which 1km doubles as a single track for multi-use to the benchmarking municipalities. trail), 170 ha of public parks and open spaces, and 325 ha of natural area (including the river valley). • Okotoks provides the following facilities at a better rate (considering provision ratios) than the benchmarked • The broader region also provides a number of recreation municipalities: fitness centres, gymnasium facilities, indoor facilities which includes the Scott Seaman Sports Rink, turf fields, and indoor walking/running tracks. Dr. Lander Memorial Swimming Pool, Bob Snodgrass Recreation Complex, and the Cargill Field House. Numerous facilities are amenities are also available Consultation in south Calgary. • Admission fees into facilities was the largest participation barrier resulting from the Household Survey (38%). Utilization • Physical health/exercise was the top motivation for • The Aquatic Centre experienced 82% utilization for each recreation, parks, and leisure participation in the lane in 2015 (15 minute increments). Household Survey (91%). • Prime Time ice utilization was 96% in the 2015 – 2016 • Ninety-four percent (94%) of Household Survey ice season. respondents believe that the municipalities in the area should work together to provide recreation, parks, and • The gymnasium at the Recreation Centre was booked 63% leisure opportunities for residents. of the time during the 2015 – 2016 school year. • The most desired indoor space is leisure pools (56%) while • The Okotoks Curling Club has 571 members and 54 the top outdoor space is walking/cycling pathways (45%). junior members • In the Community Group Survey, 28% of groups indicated • Town diamonds experienced a Prime Time utilization of that current facilities and spaces in the town completely 28% in 2015; school diamonds experienced 11%. meet the needs of their group; 55% selected “somewhat” • Town rectangular fields experienced a Prime Time and 17% indicated that the spaces do not meet their utilization of 7% in 2015; school fields experienced 10%. group’s needs. • There is a need for more facilities and spaces as the Service Delivery population grows; this was a recurring comment from the Stakeholder Interviews. • The Town offers direct programming to its residents. • The Town provides infrastructure for programs facilitated by community groups. • Financial assistance programs are offered by the Town to reduce cost as a barrier for low income residents. 66 Twelve
Preliminary Infrastructure Priorities
Identified as follows are preliminary rankings of indoor and outdoor amenity types. These rankings have been developed based on the research and consultation inputs presented in this document and utilize a simple scoring system as explained to the left of each chart. It is important to note that these ranking are preliminary and have been further analyzed in the Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan document.
Preliminary A Indoor Priorities Household Survey: two check ( a a ) marks if top five household priority; 1 check ( a ) for priorities Community Priority Indoor Amenity Household Survey GroupCommunity Questionnaire Stakeholder Interviews Existing Provision within the Town Trends/Leading Practices six to ten. 1 Climbing gyms a a a a a a 2 Indoor child playgroundsB a a a a a Community Group Questionnaire: 1 check ( a ) if 2 Leisure swimming pools a a a a a top ten priority. 3 Leisure ice surfaces (non-hockey, non-boarded ice surface)C a a a a Stakeholder Interviews: 1 check ( a ) if identified 3 25m swimming tanks a a a a by multiple stakeholders as requiring enhancement or 4 Gymnasium type spaces a a a new development. 4 Fitness/wellness facilities* a a a 4 Ice arena facilities a a a Existing Provision: 1 check ( a ) if not 4 Court sport spaces a a a currently provided. 4 Walking/running tracks a a a Trends/Leading Practices: 1 check ( a ) if identified 5 Indoor field facilities (regulation size boarded ice surface) a a as aligning with a trend/leading practice in recreation, 5 Community hall/banquet facilities a a parks, and leisure provision. 6 Classroom/meeting spaces a 6 Gymnastics spaces/parkour rooms* a 6 Youth centres a 6 Dance/program/martial arts rooms a 6 Seniors centres a 7 Curling rinks A The Community Priority ranking shown reflects the number of check marks each amenity type receives. B Available to the public through private sector operators. C Under development but not currently available.
67 Preliminary A Outdoor Priorities Household Survey: two check ( a a ) marks if top five household priority; 1 check ( a ) for priorities Community Priority Outdoor Amenity Household Survey GroupCommunity Questionnaire Stakeholder Interviews Existing Provision within the Town Trends/Leading Practices six to ten. 1 Nature/interpretive trails a a a a a 2 Mountain bike trails a a a a Community Group Questionnaire: 1 check ( a ) if 2 Outdoor pools a a a a top ten priority. 2 Walking/cycling pathway system a a a a Stakeholder Interviews: 1 check ( a ) if identified 3 Pickleball courts a a a by multiple stakeholders as requiring enhancement or 3 Water spray parks a a a new development. 3 Day use areas (with BBQs) a a a 4 Skateboard parks a a Existing Provision: 1 check ( a ) if not 4 Playgrounds a a currently provided. 4 Community gardens a a Trends/Leading Practices: 1 check ( a ) if identified 4 Toboggan hills a a as aligning with a trend/leading practice in recreation, 4 Campgrounds a a parks, and leisure provision. 4 Event spaces (e.g. amphitheatres) a a 4 Open spaces (e.g. parks, greenspace) a a 4 Dog off leash areas a a 5 Speed skating ovals a 5 Sports fields (e.g. soccer, football) a 5 Outdoor fitness equipment a 5 Hard courts (e.g. basketball) a 5 Bike skills park a 5 Tennis courts a 5 Outdoor boarded skating rinks a 5 Beach volleyball courts a 6 Track and field spaces 6 Ball diamonds A The Community Priority ranking shown reflects the number of check marks each amenity type receives.
68 Appendices
A: Household Survey Questionnaire 70 B: Community Group Survey Questionnaire 78 C: Community Group Survey Participant List 83 D: Stakeholder Interview Participant List 84
69 Appendix A
Household Survey Questionnaire
70 TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan
Household Questionnaire
Dear Resident, The Town of Okotoks is developing a Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan that will guide the provision of recreation, parks, and leisure services in the area. Gathering feedback is an important component to understanding the perspectives of residents regarding service provision in Okotoks. This feedback will be compiled and used to help develop the Master Plan. The findings from the consultation will be presented in a document that accompanies the Master Plan.
Please have an adult in the household answer this questionnaire by considering the needs of all members of your household. Please complete your questionnaire by June 17th, 2016.
As a token of thanks for completing this questionnaire, one draw will be made for a $100 grocery gift certificate. To be included in the draw, complete the entry form below. This information will be utilized solely for the purposes of the draw and will not be reported in connection with the responses you have provided. (Town staff and members of Council, along with their families, are not eligible for the draw.)
The Town of Okotoks has retained the services of RC Strategies to lead the development of the Master Plan. For additional information about the project please contact Stephen Slawuta (RC Strategies) at (780) 441 – 4267.
Draw Entry Form
Name (First Name Only):
Phone Number:
The personal information requested on this form will be used for the sole purpose of contacting you should you be the draw winner. Your personal information will not be shared with anyone for any other purposes.
71 Survey Access Code:
Section 1: Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Participation 1. In which of the following recreation, parks, and leisure activities did you and/or members of your household participate in the past year? Select all responses that apply. c Agricultural (e.g. equestrian riding, rodeo) c Gymnastics c Alpine (downhill) skiing/snowboarding c Hiking c BBQ/picnics/social gatherings c Hockey (structured/league) c Boating (kayak, canoe, paddleboards) c Ice skating program (e.g. figure skating, learn to skate) c Boating (motorized) c Indoor gymnasium sports (e.g. basketball, volleyball) c Camping c Mountain/rock climbing c Community events (e.g. Canada Day) c Nordic (cross country) skiing/snow shoeing c Gardening c Pickleball c Lawnbowling c Skateboarding/BMX/scootering c Curling c Snowmobile/ATV riding c Cycling/mountain biking c Softball/baseball/slo pitch c Dance c Swimming/diving c Dog walking/dog agility c Tennis c Field sports (e.g. soccer, football) c Tobogganing c Fitness (e.g. cardio, weights) c Walking/jogging c Golf c Wildlife watching/nature appreciation c Group exercise (boot camp, aerobics) c Yoga c Cricket c Rollerblading/inline skating c Track and field c Other (please specify):
2. What are the main reasons you and/or members of your household participate in recreation, parks, and leisure activities? Please select up to five (5) reasons. c Competition c Meet new people c Experience a challenge c Physical health/exercise c Fun/entertainment c Relaxation/unwind c Help the community c Satisfy curiosity c Improve skills and/or knowledge c To be with family/friends c Other (please specify):
3. What, if anything, prevents you or someone in your household from participating in recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities? You may select more than one response. c Better opportunities elsewhere c Overcrowded facilities c Admission fees into facilities c Poor/inadequate facilities c Don’t have the physical ability/fitness level c Fees to join a program c Equipment costs c Transportation limitations (cost/availability) c Health issues c Travel time c Hours of operation (schedule of programs/facility) c Unaware of some opportunities c Not interested in what is available c Other (please specify):
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72 Section 2: Recreation Considerations 4. To what extent do you agree with the following statements?
Strongly Somewhat Somewhat Strongly Statement Unsure Agree Agree Disagree Disagree Recreation, parks, and leisure are important to my c c c c c quality of life. My local community as a whole benefits from c c c c c recreation, parks, and leisure programs and services. Residents can benefit even if they do not use c c c c c recreation, parks, and leisure services directly. Recreation, parks, and leisure services brings the c c c c c community together. Quality recreation, parks, and leisure programs and c c c c c facilities can help attract and retain residents. The municipalities in the area should work together to provide recreation, parks, and leisure c c c c c opportunities for residents.
Section 3: Facility and Park Usage 5. For each of the following indoor and outdoor recreation, parks, and leisure facilities in the area, please indicate how frequently in the previous twelve (12) months someone in your household used/visited it/total uses/visit(s).
Did Did 1 – 9 10 – 20 21+ 1 – 9 10 – 20 21+ Indoor Facility Not Outdoor Facility Not Uses Uses Uses Uses Uses Uses Use Use Crescent Point Regional Field House Ball Diamonds c c c c Indoor Fields c c c c BMX Track c c c c Gymnasium c c c c Unpaved Trails c c c c Walking/Running Track c c c c Off Leash Dog Park c c c c Training Areas c c c c Outdoor Rinks c c c c Okotoks Recreation Centre Paved Pathways c c c c Aquatic Centre c c c c Playgrounds c c c c Gymnasium c c c c Skateboard Park c c c c Ice Arenas c c c c Playing Fields (rectangular) c c c c Fitness Areas c c c c Tennis Courts c c c c Youth Centre c c c c Pickleball Courts c c c c Pason Centennial Arena Toboggan Hills c c c c Ice Arenas c c c c Water Spray Park c c c c Walking/Running Track c c c c Outdoor Fitness Equipment c c c c Scott Seamans Arena Parks/Open Spaces c c c c Ice Arena c c c c Community Gardens c c c c Okotoks Curling Club Track and Field Grounds c c c c Curling Rink c c c c
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73 Section 4: Satisfaction 6. Overall, how satisfied are you with the availability ofindoor and outdoor recreation, parks, and leisure opportunities and services currently offered in Okotoks? a. Indoor (facilities, programs, and opportunities) c Very Satisfied c Somewhat Satisfied c Unsure c Somewhat Dissatisfied c Very Dissatisfied
b. Outdoor (parks, trails, open spaces, programs, and opportunities) c Very Satisfied c Somewhat Satisfied c Unsure c Somewhat Dissatisfied c Very Dissatisfied
Section 5: New and/or Enhanced Facilities 7. Do you think that there is a need for new and/or enhanced recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or spaces (indoor and/or outdoor) to be developed in Okotoks now and in the future? c Yes c Unsure c No (If “No”, please proceed to Q#10)
8. If you answered “Yes” or “Unsure” to Question #7, please select up to five (5) indoor recreation and leisure facilities or spaces that should be more readily available or enhanced in Okotoks to satisfy your household’s recreational needs. c 25m swimming tanks (e.g. fitness class, lane swimming) c Gymnastics spaces/parkour rooms c Classroom/meeting spaces c Ice arena facilities (e.g. hockey, figure skating) c Climbing gyms c Indoor child playgrounds c Community hall/banquet facilities c Indoor field facilities (e.g. soccer, football) c Court sport spaces (e.g. racquetball, squash, tennis) c Leisure ice surfaces (non-hockey) c Curling rinks c Leisure swimming pools (e.g. water slides, lazy river) c Dance/program/martial arts rooms c Seniors centres c Fitness/wellness facilities (e.g. exercise/weight room) c Walking/running tracks c Gymnasium type spaces (e.g. basketball, volleyball, badminton) c Youth centres c Other (please specify):
9. If you answered “Yes” or “Unsure” to Question #7, please select up to five (5) outdoor recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or spaces that should be more readily available or enhanced in Okotoks to satisfy your household’s recreational needs. c Ball diamonds c Day use areas (with BBQs) c Beach volleyball courts c Pickleball courts c Bike skills park c Outdoor pools c Campgrounds c Playgrounds c Community gardens c Skateboard parks c Dog off leash areas c Toboggan hills c Event spaces (e.g. amphitheatres, band shelters) c Speed skating ovals c Hard courts (e.g. basketball) c Sports fields (e.g. soccer, football) c Mountain bike trails c Tennis courts c Nature/interpretive trails c Track and field spaces c Open spaces (e.g. parks, greenspace) c Walking/cycling pathway system c Outdoor boarded skating rinks c Water spray parks c Outdoor fitness equipment c Other (please specify):
TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan 3
74 Section 6: Programming 10. Using the chart below, please identify the types of programming that you think need to be more readily available in Okotoks for each age group. Please select the appropriate boxes that indicate program type and age group.
Program Type Children Youth Teens Adult Adult Seniors (0-5 years) (6-12 years) (13-18 years) (19-39 years) (40-64 years) (65+ years) Nature Interaction (e.g. birdwatching, educational) c c c c c c Fitness (e.g. yoga, weightlifting) c c c c c c Outdoor Skills (e.g. camping, fishing) c c c c c c Recreation/Leisure (e.g. bicycling, floor curling) c c c c c c Sports (e.g. volleyball, soccer) c c c c c c Wellness (e.g. healthy eating, mental health) c c c c c c
11. The Town of Okotoks, partner organizations, and many other community organizations in the area provide a variety of recreation, parks, and leisure programs. Thinking about existing and new programs, what improvements or changes are needed? You may select more than one response. c Better instruction c Less cost c Different skill levels available c More convenient schedule/longer hours c Enhanced content/better quality c Need to accommodate more participants c Greater variety c Offered more frequently c Improved marketing of programs c Other (please specify):
12. Are you aware of any programs in Okotoks that provide financial assistance to individuals and families so they can access recreation, parks, and leisure programs and services? c Yes c Unsure c No
Section 7: Communication 13. What are the best three (3) methods to get information to you about recreation, parks, and leisure programs and events? c Western Wheel (newspaper) c Community Guide (publication in Western Wheel) c Eagle 100.9 (radio) c Community Guide (publication for pick-up) c Town website/online schedules c Brochures and posters in community facilities c Social media c Utility bill inserts c E-newsletters c Community signs c Public open house c Other (please specify):
Section 8: Transportation 14. What is your typical mode of transportation to and from recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and amenities (indoor and outdoor) in Okotoks? Please select up to two (2) responses. c Drive c Walk c Bicycle c Taxi c Other (please specify):
TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan 4
75 Section 9: Planning Priorities 15. The following list includes possible criteria that could be used to prioritize multiple recreation, parks, and leisure facility projects. Answering on behalf of your household, please select the top three (3) criteria that you think are the most important to consider when setting project development priorities. A recreation, parks, and leisure facility project should be a higher priority if… c … the amenity is not readily available in the area. c … the cost to operate the amenity is lower. c … funding and grants are available that would lower the costs. c … it fits with the existing plans of the local government. c … it responds to demands/requests from the community. c … the overall capital cost to build is lower. c … it has potential for bringing non-local spending into the community. c … it provides greater benefit to the community. c … it means recreation amenities are available throughout the area. c … it targets under-served segments of our community. c … it can be operated in an economically and environmentally sustainable manner. c … it complements existing opportunities and businesses in the area. c … it can be used for multiple activities by different users. c … it can be a year-round facility (or have an extended season). c … it is used by large numbers of users. c Other (please specify):
Section 10: Willingness to Pay Town of Okotoks recreation, parks, and leisure programs and facilities are paid for by a combination of tax support (including property taxes) and fees paid by users. Please answer the following questions related to tax and user fee support on behalf of your household members.
16. Which of the following options do you support in relation to tax support for the Town’s recreation, parks, and leisure programs and facilities? c Increase current level of tax support. c Maintain current level of tax support. c Decrease current level of tax support.
17. Which of the following options do you support in relation to user fees for the Town’s recreation, parks, and leisure programs and facilities? c Increase current level of user fees. c Maintain current level of user fees. c Decrease current level of user fees.
18. To what extend do you agree with the following statements?
Strongly Somewhat Somewhat Strongly Statement Unsure Agree Agree Disagree Disagree I would support an increase in property taxes for recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and programs c c c c c that my household uses or participates in. I would support an increase in property taxes for recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and programs c c c c c that my household may not use or participate in.
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76 Section 11: General Comments 19. Please use the space below to provide any other comments you may have about recreation, parks, and leisure needs in Okotoks.
Section 12: Respondent Profile 20. Where is your primary residence? c Okotoks c M.D. of Foothills c Other (please specify):
21. Do you own or rent your primary residence? c Own c Rent
22. Is anyone in your household currently playing or affiliated with a sports organization? c Yes c Unsure c No
a. If “Yes”, please identify the organization(s).
23. Please describe your household by recording the number of members in each of the following age groups. (Please do not forget yourself!)
Age 0 – 4 Years Age 5 – 9 Years Age 10 – 19 Years
Age 20 – 29 Years Age 30 – 39 Years Age 40 – 49 Years
Age 50 – 59 Years Age 60 – 69 Years Age 70 – 79 Years
Age 80+ Years
Thank you for your input!
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77 Appendix B
Community Group Survey Questionnaire
Section 4: Contributions and Partnerships 9. Town of Okotoks recreation facilities and parks are paid for by a combination of tax support (including property taxes) 2015/2016 and fees paid by users (including rental fees, admissions, etc). Which of the following options do you support in relation 2014/2015 to user/rental fees for the Town’s recreation, parks, and leisure facilities (indoor and outdoor)? 2013/2014 4. How many participants/members/clients belong to your organization? If available, please provide historical data. c Increase current level of user/rental fees to better deliver services, programs and infrastructure. c Maintain current level of user/rental fees. c Decrease current level of user/rental fees, understanding that there could be a decrease in service quality, programs, Participants/Members/Clients: and building enhancements.
a. Please explain your response. 5. Over the next couple of years, what are your expectations for participant/membership numbers? c Grow c Remain Stable c Decline 10. Does your organization partner with other community organizations and/or local municipalities (Town or neighbouring municipalities) to provide recreation, parks, and leisure services in the Okotoks area? 6. Please provide an estimate of the residency for your organizations’ members/participants/clients. c Yes Note: Your responses should add up to 100%. % Okotoks c Unsure % M.D. of Foothills c No % Calgary a. If “Yes,” please briefly describe the partnership(s). % Other (please specify):
100 % 11. What opportunities are there for community organizations to work together or with the Town of Okotoks to enhance recreation, parks, and leisure programs and spaces in the area? Section 2: Current Facility Usage 7. There are a variety of spaces in the Okotoks area that are used by community organizations for programs, events, meetings, and social functions. i. Please identify up to five (5) facilities (indoor and/or outdoor) that your group has used the most frequently in the past twelve months. Section 5: Organizational Needs and General Comments ii. For each facility or space please indicate if your group’s use is yeariii. round. How frequently did your group use 12. For each facility or space, please also indicateii. how Year frequently your group has it usedin the it in previous the previous 12 12 months? months. 21+ Uses What are the main challenges your organization is dealing with as it delivers its programs? iii. 11 – 20 Uses TOWN OF OKOTOKS Round? 6 – 10 Uses 1 – 5 Uses Recreation, Parks, i. Facility Yes or No (include indoor and outdoor spaces) and Leisure Master Plan 13. 1. Considering the program challenges described above, what is the single most important action or resource that the Town of Okotoks could provide to help your organization meet its programming goals? 2.
3.
4. 14. Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding recreation, parks, and leisure services and 5. Community Group Questionnaireopportunities in the Okotoks area.
4. To what degree do the current recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and spaces in the Okotoks area meet the needs of your organization? Completely meet the needs of our organization c The Town of Okotoks is developing a Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan that will guide the Town’s role in the delivery of c Somewhat meet the needs of our organization these services. Consultation with residents, stakeholders and community organizations is critical for understanding the recreation, c Do not adequately meet the needs of our organization parks, and leisure needs in Okotoks. TO WN OF OKOT Recreation,OKS and L Parks, Thank you for your input! Your organization is invited to provide feedback by completing this Community Groupeisure Questionnaire. Master Plan Only one response per group is requested.
2 If you have any questions, please contact Ryan Schwartz (RC Strategies) at (780) 441 – 4268. 4 OTOKS TOWN OF OK Parks, Recreation, and Leisure Master Plan
Section 1: Organizational Profile 1. Please provide the following information about your organization.
Organization Name:
Contact Person Name and Position:
Contact Person Phone Number and Email:
2. Please briefly explain the purpose of your organization and its primary recreational activities.
3. What age group(s) best describe(s) your organization’s members/participants/clients? Please select ( a ) all that apply. c Preschool (Ages 0 – 5) c Youth (6 – 12) c Teen (13 – 17) c Adult (18 – 59) c Senior (60+)
78 TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan
Community Group Questionnaire
The Town of Okotoks is developing a Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan that will guide the Town’s role in the delivery of these services. Consultation with residents, stakeholders and community organizations is critical for understanding the recreation, parks, and leisure needs in Okotoks.
Your organization is invited to provide feedback by completing this Community Group Questionnaire. Only one response per group is requested.
If you have any questions, please contact Ryan Schwartz (RC Strategies) at (780) 441 – 4268.
Section 1: Organizational Profile 1. Please provide the following information about your organization.
Organization Name:
Contact Person Name and Position:
Contact Person Phone Number and Email:
2. Please briefly explain the purpose of your organization and its primary recreational activities.
3. What age group(s) best describe(s) your organization’s members/participants/clients? Please select ( a ) all that apply. c Preschool (Ages 0 – 5) c Youth (6 – 12) c Teen (13 – 17) c Adult (18 – 59) c Senior (60+)
79 4. How many participants/members/clients belong to your organization? If available, please provide historical data. 2013/2014 2014/2015 2015/2016
Participants/Members/Clients:
5. Over the next couple of years, what are your expectations for participant/membership numbers? c Grow c Remain Stable c Decline
6. Please provide an estimate of the residency for your organizations’ members/participants/clients. Note: Your responses should add up to 100%. % Okotoks % M.D. of Foothills % Calgary % Other (please specify):
100 %
Section 2: Current Facility Usage 7. There are a variety of spaces in the Okotoks area that are used by community organizations for programs, events, meetings, and social functions. i. Please identify up to five (5) facilities (indoor and/or outdoor) that your group has used the most frequently in the past twelve months. ii. For each facility or space please indicate if your group’s use is year round. iii. For each facility or space, please also indicate how frequently your group has used it in the previous 12 months.
ii. Year iii. How frequently did your group use i. Facility Round? it in the previous 12 months? (include indoor and outdoor spaces) Yes or No 1 – 5 Uses 6 – 10 Uses 11 – 20 Uses 21+ Uses
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
4. To what degree do the current recreation, parks, and leisure facilities and spaces in the Okotoks area meet the needs of your organization? c Completely meet the needs of our organization c Somewhat meet the needs of our organization c Do not adequately meet the needs of our organization
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80 5. Please identify any enhancements/improvements that would improve your group’s enjoyment of the existing facilities used. (If appropriate, please identify the specific sites/locations.)
Section 3: New/Upgraded Facilities 6. Do you think that there is a need for new and/or upgraded recreation, parks, and leisure facilities (including indoor and outdoor spaces) to be developed in the Town of Okotoks? c Yes c Unsure c No (Please proceed to Question #9)
7. If you answered “Yes” or “Unsure” to Question #6, please select up to five (5) indoor recreation and leisure facilities or spaces that should be more readily available or enhanced in Okotoks to satisfy your organization’s recreational needs. c 25m swimming tanks (e.g. fitness class, lane swimming) c Gymnastics spaces/parkour rooms c Classroom/meeting spaces c Ice arena facilities (e.g. hockey, figure skating) c Climbing gyms c Indoor child playgrounds c Community hall/banquet facilities c Indoor field facilities (e.g. soccer, football) c Court sport spaces (e.g. racquetball, squash, tennis) c Leisure ice surfaces (non-hockey) c Curling rinks c Leisure swimming pools (e.g. water slides, lazy river) c Dance/program/martial arts rooms c Seniors centres c Fitness/wellness facilities (e.g. exercise/weight room) c Walking/running tracks c Gymnasium type spaces (e.g. basketball, volleyball, badminton) c Youth centres c Other (please specify):
8. If you answered “Yes” or “Unsure” to Question #6, please select up to five (5) outdoor recreation, parks, and leisure facilities or spaces that should be more readily available or enhanced in Okotoks to satisfy your organization’s recreational needs. c Ball diamonds c Day use areas (with BBQs) c Beach volleyball courts c Pickleball courts c Bike skills park c Outdoor pools c Campgrounds c Playgrounds c Community gardens c Skateboard parks c Dog off leash areas c Toboggan hills c Event spaces (e.g. amphitheatres, band shelters) c Speed skating ovals c Hard courts (e.g. basketball) c Sports fields (e.g. soccer, football) c Mountain bike trails c Tennis courts c Nature/interpretive trails c Track and field spaces c Open spaces (e.g. parks, greenspace) c Walking/cycling pathway system c Outdoor boarded skating rinks c Water spray parks c Outdoor fitness equipment c Other (please specify):
TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan 3
81 Section 4: Contributions and Partnerships 9. Town of Okotoks recreation facilities and parks are paid for by a combination of tax support (including property taxes) and fees paid by users (including rental fees, admissions, etc). Which of the following options do you support in relation to user/rental fees for the Town’s recreation, parks, and leisure facilities (indoor and outdoor)? c Increase current level of user/rental fees to better deliver services, programs and infrastructure. c Maintain current level of user/rental fees. c Decrease current level of user/rental fees, understanding that there could be a decrease in service quality, programs, and building enhancements.
a. Please explain your response.
10. Does your organization partner with other community organizations and/or local municipalities (Town or neighbouring municipalities) to provide recreation, parks, and leisure services in the Okotoks area? c Yes c Unsure c No
a. If “Yes,” please briefly describe the partnership(s).
11. What opportunities are there for community organizations to work together or with the Town of Okotoks to enhance recreation, parks, and leisure programs and spaces in the area?
Section 5: Organizational Needs and General Comments 12. What are the main challenges your organization is dealing with as it delivers its programs?
13. Considering the program challenges described above, what is the single most important action or resource that the Town of Okotoks could provide to help your organization meet its programming goals?
14. Please use the space below to provide any additional comments regarding recreation, parks, and leisure services and opportunities in the Okotoks area.
Thank you for your input! TOWN OF OKOTOKS Recreation, Parks, and Leisure Master Plan 4
82 Appendix C
Community Group Survey Participant List
1. Black Elk Hockey Camp
2. CTR Catholic
3. Foothills Highland Games
4. Foothills Special Needs Association for Parents and Siblings
5. Foothills Stingrays Swim Club
6. Greater Okotoks Football
7. K2 Hockey Clinics & Okotoks HiLites Men’s Hockey
8. Okotoks and District Fish and Game Association
9. Okotoks BMX
10. Okotoks Curling Club
11. Okotoks Dawgs Baseball Program
12. Okotoks Friday night mixed slopitch league
13. Okotoks Minor Hockey
14. Okotoks Pickleball Club
15. Okotoks Stingrays Summer Swim Club
16. Okotoks Tennis Centre
17. Peak Volleyball Club
18. Ranahan Policrosse Club
19. Torjager Hockey Ltd.
83 Appendix D
Stakeholder Interview Participant List
1. Alberta Speed Skating 23. Okotoks Disc Golf Club
2. Big Rock Runners 24. Okotoks Fish and Game
3. Bike jump users 25. Okotoks Minor Basketball
4. Bird Watchers 26. Okotoks Minor Hockey
5. Chamber of Commerce 27. Okotoks Newcomers Club
6. Christ Redeember School Division 28. Okotoks Pickleball Club
7. Culture, Parks, and Recreation Committee (1 member) 29. Okotoks Raiders Lacrosse
8. Eagles Football Club 30. Okotoks Stingrays Swim Club
9. Economic Development Committee 31. Okotoks Tennis Club
10. Facility pass holders 32. Okotoks Trail Alliance
11. Fitness providers 33. Okotoks United Soccer
12. Foothills Lions Rugby Football Club 34. Percy Pegler Mens Slo Pitch
13. Foothills Minor Ball 35. Priarie Dolphins
14. Foothills Stingrays Swim Club 36. Ringette
15. Healthy Okotoks Coalition 37. Skateboard park users
16. Highwood Cycling 38. Sledge Hockey
17. K2 Hockey School 39. Special Needs Association for Parents and Siblings
18. KidSport Okotoks 40. Stakeholder - Wayne Meikle
19. Master Swim Club 41. Stakeholder - Marg Cox
20. Natural High Fitness 42. Trail and park users
21. Okotoks Cyclocross 43. Triathlon
22. Okotoks Dawgs
84